No Antelope for the Pope: Philadelphia Zoo Shutting Down During Papal Visit

From the Philadelphia Zoo.

It looks like visitors to Philadelphia for the World Meeting of Families and the Pope won’t be able to enjoy the Philadelphia Zoo. They’ve announced that the famed attraction will be shutting down during the weekend of the Papal visit.

CBS Philly reports that the Zoo will remain open on Friday, September 25, but that the weekend is a no-go. Also, Zoo officials are “still discussing” plans for Monday, September 28.

“Since the Philadelphia Zoo is home to a living collection there will be essential personnel from several departments staying onsite throughout the weekend to handle animal care as well as safety and facility needs,” according to a Zoo statement.