STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Two Staten Island otters got some good news from the students of Markham Intermediate School.
Students at the Graniteville school raised $2,600 for the care of Lewis and Rotini, the Staten Island Zoo’s two North American River Otters, by hosting two bake sales and posting artwork featuring the otters around the school.
Faculty, parents and friends also contributed to help raise funds.
This is the 10th year that students have contributed to the cause.
The Science Club hosts the fundraiser annually and members follow up by asking the Zoo if there’s an animal in need of funding.
Some of the animals in the past have been foxes, ring-tailed lemur, binturong, porcupine, an Amur leopard and this year, otters.
The money will support the care, food, veterinary and enrichment program for the otters, which are on exhibit at the Zoo year round.
Students and teachers from Markham Intermediate School smile along with Ken Mitchell, executive director of the Staten Island Zoo, after students donated a check for $2,600 to be used for the care of animals. (Courtesy/Staten Island Zoo)Staten Island Advance
“We are extremely grateful to these young conservationists at I.S. 51 for their incredible generosity to our animals, and their ongoing support for the past 10 years,” said Ken Mitchell, the Staten Island Zoo’s executive director. “Their care and compassion truly make a difference for our animals. It is very clear that these students love our animals and our Zoo. These funds will be used to support the daily care of Lewis and Rotini.”
The students visited the Zoo on May 13 to present a check to Mitchell.
After the ceremony, students witnessed a training session with otters, Lewis and Rotini, as well as a ride on the Conservation Carousel.
“I promptly showed the check to our otters and they were very happy,” Mitchell quipped.