A young grizzly bear named Fitz from the Calgary Zoo temporarily left its enclosure early Sunday morning, according to a spokesperson from the Wilder Institute’s Calgary Zoo. The incident triggered immediate emergency response protocols, with the zoo’s animal care and security teams, along with the Calgary Police Service, swiftly intervening.
Communications manager Cindy Antonello stated that 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 as the incident occurred before the zoo opened, and the affected section, Wild Canada, was temporarily closed for assessment before reopening later in the day.
Antonello mentioned that a thorough review of the situation was underway as part of post-incident procedures. The Calgary Police Service Staff Sgt. John Guigon confirmed that there was no danger to the public during the bear’s brief escapade, emphasizing that the bear was tranquilized by zoo staff with no need for police intervention.
Fitz and his sibling Turner were orphaned cubs brought to the Calgary Zoo last autumn following their mother’s unfortunate demise in a hunter’s self-defense incident near Diamond Valley, southwest of Calgary. The zoo has a history with polar bears, and despite past challenges, it has committed to higher standards with its latest bear additions.
Overall, the situation was swiftly and effectively managed, ensuring the safety of all involved parties while providing an unexpected adventure for Fitz.