Seattle — Woodland Park Zoo’s recent Jungle Party was a roaring success. Attended by nearly 850 zoo supporters from throughout the region, the 27th annual fundraising extravaganza grossed over $1.1 million dollars including $197,000 raised for the zoo’s Animal E.R. — this year’s beneficiary of the Save-A-Species Fund.

This year’s Jungle Party, themed "Indian Bazaar," was an unforgettable evening with engaging entertainment, exhibit tours, authentic Indian cuisine by Ray’s Boathouse Catering, Specialty Drink Bar by Restaurant Zoë, and a live and silent auction consisting of 500 auction items. Live auction highlights included: a Georgia Gerber "Baby Elephant Hansa" sculpture which sold for $23,000; an African Safari for four with Zoo Board Member Carol Hosford which sold for $21,000; and a Pebble Beach Golf trip for four which sold for $16,000.

"The generosity of this community is amazing! The zoo and the community we serve are blessed by such loyal and generous support," says Woodland Park Zoo President and CEO Dr. Deborah Jensen. "Jungle Party directly supports the zoo’s efforts to help create a sustainable future for wildlife."

Jungle Party’s proceeds support Woodland Park Zoo’s animal care and conservation and education programs. The zoo’s premier fundraiser also helps to ensure this cherished community resource continues to make a difference in the survival of threatened and endangered species in Washington and around the world.