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The Lake Superior Zoo has launched a bold new fundraising campaign — New Beginnings at Lake Superior Zoo: Hope After SeaQuest — to raise $75,000 in support of the nearly 200 animals rescued from the closure of SeaQuest Roseville earlier this year.

In early March, the Zoo joined other Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA)-accredited facilities in responding to the urgent call to rehome more than 1,400 displaced animals. 

As part of that effort, Lake Superior Zoo welcomed a diverse group of animals, including birds, reptiles and a capybara, into the care of its expert animal management and veterinary teams.

“Many of these animals arrived from enclosures and environments that did not meet AZA standards,” said Lizzy Larson, Director of Animal Management and Facilities at the Lake Superior Zoo. “We are committed not just to housing these animals, but to helping them thrive in safe, species-appropriate habitats designed around their behavioral needs and overall wellbeing.”

Among the rescued animals now calling the Zoo home are:

• Danny the capybara, who experienced natural earth, fresh grass, and open sky for the first time after arriving in Duluth.

• A reticulated python, one of the world’s longest snakes, who will soon benefit from a spacious, climate-controlled indoor habitat.

• A tegu, a heat-loving lizard requiring high humidity and enrichment.

• Eclectus pair, male and female mid-sized parrots awaiting a safe, sizeable and enriching indoor habitat.

• Several parrots — including a military macaw, Catalina macaw, awaiting a safe, stimulating outdoor aviary.

• 172 budgies, now safely housed and receiving appropriate care.

“These animals have already endured instability and uncertainty,” said Lake Superior Zoo Executive Director, Haley Hedstrom. “Now, we have the chance to offer them something better — a future defined by dignity, expert care and safety. But we can’t do it alone.”

As part of the New Beginnings campaign, the Lake Superior Zoo is proud to unveil plans for a 100-tile mosaic mural celebrating the capybara’s native Amazonian habitat. The completed tile wall is expected to be unveiled in 2026 and will serve as a permanent public art installation within the Zoo.

Each tile will be hand-painted by renowned Duluth artist Karin Kraemer in her vibrant Maiolica style, an in-glaze technique known for its rich color, movement and natural beauty. 

Kraemer draws inspiration from everyday life and the living world — making her the perfect artist to bring this rainforest-inspired vision to life.

Surrounding the central mural will be individually sponsored tiles, available to community members who wish to support the rescued animals. Each donor-sponsored tile can be personalized with a name or dedication, creating a heartfelt and lasting tribute that also directly supports new habitats and lifelong animal care.

Your tile will become part of something meaningful — a wall built by hearts and filled with hope for wild creatures in human care.Supporters of the New Beginnings campaign will receive recognition and unique benefits, including:
• Supporter ($25–$99): Rescue updates + LSZ sticker
• Advocate ($100–$299): All above + commemorative capybara footprint
• Guardian ($300–$499): All above + name on a tile in the mosaic
• Protector ($500–$999): All above + invite to a private Capybara Party
• Hero ($1,000–$1,499): All above + four personalized mural tiles + custom video message
• Champion ($1,500+): All above + private animal experience with Danny the Capybara
• Presenting Sponsor ($5,000+): Exclusive lead sponsor recognition on the mural + custom experiences

Every dollar raised will directly support the construction of species-appropriate habitats, provide veterinary care and ensure a permanent home for these rescued animals.

We’re building more than exhibits—we’re building second chances. With the community’s help, we can give these animals what they’ve always deserved.

To learn more or make a donation, visit givebutter.com/KLsbEt