WILLIAMSBURG, Va. -- Busch Gardens Williamsburg will not open as scheduled this weekend.

"As part of our continued commitment to the safety of our guests and Ambassadors, and out of an abundance of caution, we are temporarily closing all of our theme parks, effective March 14, through the end of the month," a park spokesperson posted on Facebook. "During this time essential personnel, including animal care experts, will continue to look after the health, safety and nutritional needs of the animals in our care."

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment owns Busch Gardens theme parks in Williamsburg and Tampa, and SeaWorld parks in Florida, California, and Texas.