Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park, near Ilfracombe in north Devon, could close permanently as soon as Sunday after several years of "enormous financial pressures".
In a Facebook post on Friday, the owners said: "Despite our best efforts, and several potential rescue deals coming very close, we've reached a point where continuing beyond this season may simply not be possible without new investment or a change of ownership."
Appeal launched after public requests
The 40-year-old family-run attraction houses wolves, sea lions, Amur leopards and other wildlife. It also features life-size animatronic dinosaurs, a dinosaur museum and an indoor dinosaur-themed soft-play area.
In a Saturday Facebook update, the owners said they had launched a GoFundMe appeal following "many requests" from members of the public. Donations would cover the animals' food and specialist diets, keepers' wages, veterinary care and medication, heating, electricity and enclosure maintenance.
The funds would also support the animals' safe relocation to other zoos and wildlife parks if required. At the time of reporting, the appeal had generated more than £3,600.
Park open this weekend
In a statement on the fundraising page, the owners said they "haven't given up hope" and are "exploring every opportunity to save the park", including talks with potential buyers, investors and financial supporters.
The park will remain open this weekend, with owners urging visitors to come along, particularly as the weather is expected to be favourable. "This weekend could be your last opportunity to experience the park as you've always known it," they stated in their Facebook post. "Whether it's visiting your favourite animals, enjoying a walk around the grounds or simply spending a lovely day out with family and friends, please don't put it off."
Dawn Gilbert and her husband have run the park since 2011, when she took over from her late father, Robert Butcher, who originally founded the attraction. The business has since expanded into accommodation to bolster its revenue streams.
