Wolf, Turtle, Cow, Goral, Salamander – Vote Often For The Zoo Mayor

I’m backing the lizard.

From Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo:

The campaign trail is heating up once again at Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo, as a new group of charismatic animal candidates vie for the coveted title of Zoo Mayor! Now in its sixth year, this lighthearted election invites guests to cast their votes for their favorite animal ambassador while supporting the Zoo’s mission of conservation, education, research, and fun.

Each vote helps care for the Zoo’s animals and supports vital programs that inspire visitors to protect our planet’s incredible biodiversity. The 2025 race introduces five new contenders with a unique campaign style and plenty of personality:

Fiona the Maned Wolf

Graceful, striking, and confident, Fiona the Maned Wolf believes she’s got exactly what it takes to lead the pack. Known for her poise and independence, Fiona’s campaign emphasizes trust, teamwork, and forward thinking. With her signature flair, she’s promising to be “The Mane You Can Trust.”
Text 2026ZooMayor2 to 71777 to vote for Fiona the Maned Wolf.

 Logan the Amazon River Turtle

Slow and steady wins the race! Logan believes that true leadership comes from patience and perspective. With his calm demeanor and long view of progress, Logan plans to “Shell Out Real Solutions” that will make the Zoo a better place for animals and visitors alike.

Text 2026ZooMayor3 to 71777 to vote for Logan the Amazon River Turtle.

Rose the Dexter Cow

Known for her gentle nature and big heart, Rose is determined to “Moo-ve the Zoo in the Right Direction.” She’s a strong advocate for teamwork and sustainability, believing that every pasture thrives when everyone pulls together.
Text 2026ZooMayor4 to 71777 to vote for Rose the Dexter Cow.

King the Chinese Goral

Charismatic, confident, and a true crowd favorite, King is ready to take the horns of leadership. This sure-footed contender is climbing to new heights with a campaign built on inclusion, compassion, and courage. Supporters are calling him “The People’s G.O.A.T.” and he’s ready to live up to the title!
Text 2026ZooMayor5 to 71777 to vote for King the Chinese Goral.

Chunk the Tiger Salamander

A true local favorite, Chunk is known for his persistence and personality. This amphibian candidate isn’t afraid to get a little muddy if it means making a difference. He’s running on a platform of connection, promising to be “a Mayor Who Sticks With You.”
Text 2026ZooMayor1 to 71777 to vote for Chunk the Salamander.

“The election for Mayor of Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is one of our most beloved traditions,” said Dr. Jim Wharton, CEO of Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo. “It’s a fun and creative way for guests to engage with our animals while helping to support our mission. Every vote makes an impact, so we encourage everyone to vote early, vote often, and have fun doing it!”

The election will be decided by all tallied text and online votes. The voting begins on Monday, October 20th and the polls close at 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, November 4th. The public is invited to vote for the candidate of their choice by making a one-dollar donation for each vote via text to the number identified in the candidate profile. Guests can also text 2026ZooMayor to 71777 or visit the webpage to vote at https://fundraise.givesmart.com/form/OboRmQ?vid=1m8yfw.

 The winning Mayor will hold a 12-month term. All donations to the ballot box will support the Zoo’s mission of conservation, education, research, and fun. For more information, visiting hours, and other zoo attractions, please visit www.beardsleyzoo.org.