Wonder Gardens reopens following Hurricane Milton thanks to dedicated volunteers

BONITA SPRINGS, Fla. - Oct. 18, 2024 - PRLog -- Thanks to the dedication and support of volunteers and staff, the Wonder Gardens reopened Monday, Oct. 14, less than one week after Category 3 Hurricane Milton hit Florida's west coast. Wonder Gardens' resident birds and reptiles were moved to safety before the storm, and all were returned to their exhibits after wellness checks and determination their habitats were safe.

"We were very lucky to only have minor damage and flooding from Hurricane Milton," says Wonder Gardens CEO Neil Anderson. "The support and enthusiasm from the community in tough times following major storms is a silver lining, and we are so thankful for everyone who reached out and helped us get back on our feet."

Following the storm, 45 volunteers contributed more than 160 hours volunteering over four days, moving more than 10 cubic yards of debris, cutting and removing downed trees, raking debris and fallen palm fronds, and more.

Volunteers included Florida Gulf Coast University and Florida Atlantic University students, leadership of the Bonita Springs Historical Society, Wonder Gardens members and people who traveled from the East Coast of Florida to assist.

The attraction closed in advance of Hurricane Milton to prepare and remained closed after the storm due to standing water throughout much of the property. Fallen trees included toppled bamboo and two major trees—one in the otter exhibit construction area. Additionally, debris from trees, bushes and other plants were scattered throughout the property.

Unlike Hurricane Ian, which flooded several of the buildings, no buildings were flooded after hurricanes Helene and Milton. However, due to loss of power for several days, the garden lost refrigerated fresh and frozen food for its birds and reptiles. To donate to support the Gardens, visit WonderGardens.org, where a wish list on Amazon can be found under "support us."

About Wonder Gardens

The Wonder Gardens, a charitable zoological park and botanical garden established in 1936 in Bonita Springs, is home to rescued birds and reptiles nestled among sprawling banyan trees and plantings. While preserving the best of this site's history, the nonprofit cares for rescued, rehabilitated, and non-releasable animals, is upgrading wildlife enclosures and growing the botanical beauty of the property, while delivering education programs and events and further engaging the community to enjoy this jewel in historic Downtown Bonita Springs. The Wonder Gardens at 27180 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs is one of the few remaining cornerstones of Old Florida, an enduring symbol of the history of the region, as well as a resource for learning about the environment and wildlife. For information, visit wondergardens.org or call 239-992-2591.