SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (MITCHELLNOW) One of the main attractions of the Great Plains Zoo in Sious Falls is the Delbridge collection located in the lobby of the zoo.  The collection includes several wild animals stuffed and preserved through taxidermy.  Some of the specimens represent animals that are now on the endangered species list.  The collection was a big draw for the Great Plains Zoo until last year when the exhibit was closed due to the discovery of arsenic emitted by the exhibited animals.

Zoo and other officials are awaiting a consultant’s report on the situation.  There is debate over what to do with this majestic display.  Some want to refurbish, repair and otherwise make the animals safe for exhibition once again.  The question remains, is that feasible?  Others want to donate the collection in its entirety to another entity with full disclosure and let them worry about it.  Then there are those who have reluctantly concluded there is nothing to be done other than destroying the collection for the public’s health and safety.

No final decision has been made at this time.