The generosity of Realt na Mara pupils came roaring to life last week as they donated €800 to Dublin zoo, and adopted a host of animals from giraffes and elephants to snow leopards and zebras. The plight of Dublin zoo's animals was highlighted recently with a huge fundraising drive to secure the future of the Phoenix Park facility. COVID-19 restrictions and the zoo closure for many months in 2020 saw a massive drop in funds vital to feed and care for the range of animals living there. Realt na Mara teacher Emmajane Larkin said she felt a real need to help. 'I first heard about it reported on the RTE news that the future of Dublin Zoo was uncertain after closing their gates for the second time this year due to COVID. I have very fond memories of visiting Dublin Zoo as a child with my family and therefore when I heard about the Animal Adoption Programme, I was eager to get to involve.'