Detroit Zoological Society establishes rescue fund

The Detroit Zoological Society has created a fund to help rescued animals at the Detroit Zoo in Royal Oak. 

The society has a reputation for providing sanctuary to exotic animals that are abandoned, surrendered or confiscated. 

More than 1,000 animals have been rescued by the DZS since 1993, including Barle, a polar bear confiscated from a tropical circus; and Mike, Thor and Boo, orphaned grizzly bear cubs from Alaska. 

Most of the rescued animals had been kept as exotic pets, lived in circuses or were bought and sold by exotic animal dealers. 

Detroit Zoological Society Executive Director and CEO Ron Kagan says the Kalter/Lezotte Fund for Wildlife Rescue will enable the zoo to continue its "critical work rescuing and caring for these animals." 

Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press.  All rights reserved.  This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.