Exotic Animal Center In Poland To Shut Oct. 31 After Costly Move

Mr. Drew and His Animals Too will shut its Poland education center for good on October 31, the exotic animal rescue said in a Facebook post on October 7, according to 92 Moose.

Owners Drew and Susan Desjardins said the cost of moving the operation out of Lewiston and into Poland was more than the organization could absorb. The group had taken space on Route 26 in 2025 after being told it had to vacate its longtime home at the Lewiston Mall, and had pitched the new site as a lasting attraction for schools and families interested in reptiles, amphibians and other exotic species.

The couple said they are not seeking donations or a crowdfunding push to stay open. Instead, the program will go back to its original model of traveling to schools, Scout troops, homeschool groups, birthday parties and community events around the state. Bookings already made for 2026, 2027 and 2028 will be honored, the owners said.

Some animals will stay with the program for outreach work, while others will go to other educational facilities or sanctuaries. The Desjardins said none will be euthanized or put up for public adoption.

The Poland site will keep daily hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. until it closes, with scheduled events still planned. The organization had operated a public location for eight years, 92 Moose reported.

This story was first reported by 92 Moose.