The Wilder Institute’s Calgary Zoo experienced an unexpected event early on August 16, 2026 when a one-year-old grizzly bear named Fitz escaped his enclosure. The incident, which occurred around 7:30 a.m. was swiftly managed by zoo personnel, ensuring the safety of both the animal and the public.
Fitz, one of two orphaned cubs brought to the zoo last fall, had made his public debut in May. The escape happened approximately 90 minutes before the zoo was set to open to the public. Emergency protocols were immediately activated, and the situation was resolved without any injuries to guests, staff, volunteers, or animals.
The Incident and Response
According to zoo officials, Fitz exited his habitat around 7:30 a.m. on Sunday morning. The zoo’s Animal Care, Health & Welfare team along with security personnel and the Calgary Police Service responded to the situation. Fitz was successfully immobilized and safely relocated to his back-of-house space.
The Wild Canada section of the zoo, where the grizzly bear enclosure is located, remained closed while a thorough assessment of the area was conducted. The section was reopened to guests early Sunday afternoon, allowing visitors to resume their activities.
Reviewing the Incident
In the aftermath of the incident, zoo officials stated that their teams would be reviewing the circumstances as part of their established post-incident procedures. Post-incident reviews are crucial for identifying any potential improvements in safety protocols and ensuring the well-being of both animals and visitors.
Communications manager Cindy Antonello emphasized that there were no injuries reported during the incident. She noted that the zoo’s emergency response procedures were effectively activated, demonstrating the institution’s preparedness for such events.
The Story of Fitz and Turner
Fitz and his brother Turner were brought to the zoo as cubs after their mother was killed by a hunter in self-defense near Diamond Valley southwest of Calgary. The cubs made their public debut at the zoo in May, capturing the hearts of visitors with their playful antics.
The incident involving Fitz serves as a reminder of the importance of robust safety measures in zoological settings. The swift response from zoo staff and authorities ensured that the situation was resolved efficiently, highlighting the dedication of those involved in animal care and public safety.
