Introduction
The Calgary Zoo experienced a profound loss on Friday morning as Baffin, one of its beloved male polar bear, tragically died in the plunge pool of the bears’ enclosure. The incident, which unfolded in front of visitors, has left the zoo’s staff, volunteers, and patrons in shock
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The Incident
Baffin and his companion, Siku, were engaging in their usual sparring routine around 11:30 a.m. when staff noticed that Baffin had not resurfaced from the pool. The crowd, initially entertained by the bears’ playful antics, quickly became concerned as Baffin disappeared from sight. Despite prompt action by the zoo staff to relocate Siku and retrieve Baffin, the seven-year-old bear was found deceased
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Staff Reactions
Jamie Dorgan, the interim CEO and COO of the zoo, expressed the team’s disbelief and sorrow. “It’s obviously a huge shock today for our staff and volunteers to learn of this incredibly surprising situation,” Dorgan stated. He emphasized the deep bonds between the animal care specialists and the animals, likening them to family members
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Investigation and Necropsy
The cause of Baffin’s death remains unknown, and a thorough investigation, including a necropsy, is underway. The necropsy, conducted by trained pathologists, will explore all potential factors to determine what might have gone wrong. This protocol is standard for any animal death at the zoo, ensuring that all possible learnings are extracted from such tragic events.
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Baffin and Siku’s Background
Baffin and Siku had recently been relocated to the Calgary Zoo from the Assiniboine Park Zoo in Winnipeg. The pair were the first polar bears to reside at the Calgary Zoo since 1999, housed in the newly developed $11.5-million Taylor Family Foundation Polar Bear Sanctuary within the $40-million Wild Canada Zone. Their habitat was specifically designed to offer a natural and enriching environment for the polar bears, who were orphaned as cubs near Churchill, Manitoba, and deemed too young to survive alone in the wild
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Support for Staff and Volunteers
The zoo has committed to supporting its staff and volunteers during this difficult time, recognizing the emotional toll such a sudden loss can take. “Our animal care specialists have pretty significant relationships with these animals,” Dorgan noted, highlighting the deep connection between the caregivers and the animals.
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Recent Health and Well-being
Alison Archambault, the zoo’s director of brand and engagement, had recently commented on the bears’ thriving condition despite the ongoing heat wave, noting their enjoyment of the various water and cooling features in their enclosure. This made the sudden death of Baffin all the more perplexing and heart-wrenching for everyone involved
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Conclusion
As the zoo conducts its review and investigation, it remains committed to the welfare and care of its animals, ensuring that any insights gained from this tragedy are used to enhance the safety and well-being of all its residents. The Wild Canada Zone, home to other species such as muskox, bighorn sheep, and whooping cranes, was closed following the incident to allow for a comprehensive assessment and response.
The loss of Baffin serves as a stark reminder of the fragile balance of life and the profound impact these magnificent creatures have on those who care for them and the public who cherishes their presence.