The Calgary Zoo, operated by the Wilder Institute, is currently looking into the circumstances surrounding an incident where a grizzly bear managed to escape from its enclosure on a Sunday morning. The director of animal care, health, and welfare at the zoo mentioned during a media briefing held on Monday afternoon that they are conducting a review of the situation to identify any necessary improvements to the habitat and to implement appropriate mitigation measures.
According to Colleen Baird, the bear in question, named Fitz, a one-year-old rescued grizzly bear cub, was discovered to be outside of its designated area during routine checks conducted by zoo staff before opening hours to the public. Baird confirmed that the animal care team promptly initiated emergency response protocols, tranquilizing the bear swiftly, ensuring its well-being.
Assuring the public of their safety, Baird stated that there was no danger posed as the incident occurred before the zoo was open to visitors and the bear stayed in close proximity to its enclosure throughout the event. The section of the zoo known as Wild Canada, where the bears are housed, was temporarily closed but later reopened to visitors in the afternoon.
Although the exact timing of the bear’s escape remains unknown, Baird mentioned that there was no evidence indicating that Fitz had roamed the zoo premises overnight, as security footage did not capture any movement beyond the immediate vicinity. It is believed that the bear managed to escape by climbing over containment barriers, which were about eight to 10 feet high and equipped with hot wires, gaining access to an area just outside its habitat.
Furthermore, the Calgary Zoo is equipped with multiple layers of security measures, including a high barbed wire fence surrounding the entire facility to prevent animals from escaping. Fitz, along with his brother Turner, has been temporarily relocated to a safe area within the zoo while additional assessments are being carried out to enhance the habitat and implement further safety measures based on the incident review.
The two grizzly bear cubs, Fitz and Turner, were brought to the Calgary Zoo last fall after their mother was tragically killed by a hunter in self-defense near Diamond Valley, southwest of Calgary. The zoo officials are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of the bears as they continue to investigate and enhance the security of their enclosures.