The Calgary Zoo, operated by the Wilder Institute, is currently looking into the circumstances surrounding an incident where a young grizzly bear named Fitz managed to escape from his enclosure on Sunday morning. Colleen Baird, the zoo’s head of animal care, health, and welfare, stated during a press briefing on Monday that a thorough investigation is underway to identify the necessary improvements for the habitat and preventive measures.
Zoo staff discovered that Fitz, a one-year-old grizzly bear rescued as a cub, had left his designated area during routine early morning checks before the zoo opened to the public. Baird mentioned that the animal care team promptly implemented emergency protocols, tranquilizing the bear shortly after his escape, ensuring his well-being.
Despite the incident occurring before public hours and Fitz remaining near his enclosure, the Wild Canada section, where the bears are housed, was temporarily closed until later in the day as a precautionary measure. Calgary police were on standby at the scene, acknowledging the potential risk posed by a grizzly bear but noting that Fitz appeared more curious than threatening.
The exact timing of Fitz’s escape remains unknown, with Baird stating that it could have been overnight or just a short period. Surveillance footage showed no signs of Fitz wandering extensively within the zoo premises. It is believed that Fitz managed to climb over the enclosure’s barriers, which are approximately eight to 10 feet high and equipped with hot wire, gaining access to an area outside his habitat.
Baird emphasized the multiple layers of security measures in place within the zoo to prevent such incidents, including a high barbed wire fence surrounding the entire facility. Following the escape, Fitz and his brother Turner were temporarily relocated to a secure area within the zoo.
The zoo’s team is currently evaluating additional improvements and safety measures based on the investigation’s findings. Fitz and Turner were brought to the zoo as orphans last year after their mother was tragically killed by a hunter in self-defense near Diamond Valley, southwest of Calgary.