BAGHDAD, Iraq -- The animals in Baghdad's zoo had it rough before the war. Underfeeding and little health care were blamed on a lack of funds because of the U.N.'s economic sanctions.

In the aftermath of the war, the conditions at the zoo are even worse.

But some help is beginning to arrive in the form of food shipments from Kuwait and attention from U.S. troops in Baghdad -- some are feeding the animals their own rations.

Zookeepers fled as the fighting in Baghdad intensified -- leaving cages full of dehydrated and starving animals. Then the zoo was hit by looters who stole birds, and set dozens of monkeys and other animals free into the streets of the city.

Relief officials say they're getting inquiries from international animal welfare organizations about how they can help.

How Can You Help?

The North Carolina Zoological Society has set up a fund for these animals. Concerned parties can mail donations to:

Aid to Baghdad Zoo
c/o North Carolina Zoological Society
4403 Zoo Parkway
Asheboro, NC 27205

For more information, you can visit their Web site at www.nczoo.com.

Updates on the situation will be available at www.AZA.org, www.nczoo.org and www.nczoo.com as information is obtained.

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