A young grizzly bear named Fitz managed to exit his enclosure at the Calgary Zoo early on a Sunday morning, according to a spokesperson from the Wilder Institute’s Calgary Zoo. The incident prompted immediate implementation of emergency protocols, involving the zoo’s animal care and security teams along with the Calgary Police Service. Fitz was safely immobilized and relocated back to his designated area without any harm to visitors, staff, volunteers, or other animals.
The public was not at risk during the incident, as confirmed by Calgary Police Service Staff Sgt. John Guigon. He mentioned that the bear roamed around the zoo, sat down, and was tranquilized by zoo personnel. Police officers were present at the scene but mainly stood by while the zoo managed the situation.
Following the incident, the area where the bears are housed, known as Wild Canada, was temporarily closed for assessment and later reopened in the afternoon. The zoo’s communications manager, Cindy Antonello, stated that a thorough review of the event would be conducted as part of the post-incident procedures. Fitz and his sibling Turner were introduced to the zoo after being orphaned when their mother was killed near Diamond Valley.
The Calgary Zoo has a history with polar bears, facing challenges and mishaps over the years. However, the zoo has committed to upholding new standards with its recent bear introductions. Further updates on the incident are pending as zoo officials continue their review.
