One of the grizzly bears at Calgary Zoo, a one-year-old named Fitz, was found outside his designated area early Sunday morning, according to a spokesperson from the Wilder Institute’s Calgary Zoo as reported by CBC News. The incident prompted the activation of emergency response protocols, with the zoo’s animal care and security teams swiftly addressing the situation alongside the Calgary Police Service.
Fitz was safely immobilized and relocated by the animal care team without any harm to visitors, staff, volunteers, or other animals, stated communications manager Cindy Antonello. The incident occurred before the zoo opened to the public, leading to a temporary closure of the Wild Canada section where the bears reside for a thorough assessment before reopening later in the day.
Antonello mentioned that a post-incident review will be conducted to understand the circumstances better. Calgary Police Service Staff Sgt. John Guigon assured the public that there was no risk during the incident, emphasizing that the bear was tranquilized after a brief stroll around the zoo.
Fitz and his sibling Turner, who arrived at the zoo as cubs last autumn following their mother’s unfortunate demise by a hunter near Diamond Valley, have been a part of the zoo’s conservation efforts. The police responded to the scene but allowed the zoo to manage the situation effectively, with Guigon noting the bear’s lack of aggressive behavior during the incident.