The Calgary Zoo, operated by the Wilder Institute, is currently looking into the circumstances surrounding the escape of a grizzly bear from its enclosure on Sunday morning. The director of animal care, health, and welfare at the zoo mentioned during a media briefing on Monday afternoon that a thorough investigation is ongoing to identify necessary improvements to the habitat and implement appropriate mitigation measures.
The incident involving Fitz, a one-year-old rescued grizzly bear cub, was discovered by staff during their regular early morning checks before the zoo opened to the public. The animal care team promptly initiated emergency protocols, tranquilized the bear, and confirmed that Fitz is in good health.
According to Colleen Baird, the zoo’s director, there was no threat to public safety as the incident occurred before opening hours, and the bear remained in the vicinity of its enclosure. The specific timeline of the escape remains unknown, with Baird speculating it could have been overnight or for a shorter period.
Fitz likely escaped by scaling the enclosure’s containment barriers, which are eight to 10 feet tall and equipped with hot wire, granting access to an area outside his habitat. Despite the bear’s temporary freedom, there was no evidence suggesting he wandered extensively within the zoo grounds overnight.
Following the incident, both Fitz and his brother Turner have been relocated to a secure area within the zoo. The zoo’s team is evaluating additional measures and habitat enhancements based on the investigation’s outcomes.
Fitz and Turner were brought to the Calgary Zoo as cubs last year after their mother was tragically killed in self-defense by a hunter near Diamond Valley, southwest of Calgary.
