The Calgary Zoo is mourning the tragic loss of Eyare, a two-year-old western lowland gorilla, who died on November 12, 2024, after being struck by a hydraulic door due to human error. This unfortunate incident has raised serious concerns about animal safety protocols at the zoo, prompting discussions about the care and treatment of animals held within such facilities.
Eyare, who was born at the Calgary Zoo in 2022, had quickly become beloved by both staff and visitors alike. Her playful spirit and interactions with other gorillas brought much joy to the community. According to Colleen Baird, director of Animal Care, Health, and Welfare at the zoo, "Eyare’s short but impactful life brought so much joy to our community, and she will be deeply missed by all." Eyare was described as lively and full of energy, evident just moments before the accident when she was happily moving about her habitat.
The incident unfolded when the zookeeper intended to activate a separator door for Eyare's training session but mistakenly opened the wrong hydraulic door. This resulted in Eyare sustaining traumatic head injuries. Despite expeditious veterinary intervention, including efforts such as CPR, Eyare succumbed to her injuries shortly thereafter.
Immediately following the incident, the zoo announced it would investigate the circumstances surrounding Eyare’s death. The staff member involved was removed from their position and will be reassigned after undergoing additional training to prevent similar accidents from occurring in the future. The zoo’s commitment to improving safety measures includes reevaluations of training protocols, specialized hydraulic door training, and assessments on animal behavior to minimize risks during handling and training.
The loss of Eyare has stoked debates about zoo practices and animal safety. Advocates for animal welfare, such as the non-profit organization Animal Justice Legislative Fund, have called for independent investigations and thorough reviews of all operational procedures at the Calgary Zoo. Camille Labchuk, the organization’s director, criticized the zoo, highlighting previous incidents, including the drowning of another animal due to human error. Labchuk stated, "This zoo has more ‘accidental’ deaths compared to other zoos, and following Eyare’s death, there should be transparency with government investigations to improve facilities."
Conversely, the Calgary Zoo defended its practices, stating it has been accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums for decades. They mentioned the rarity of such human errors, citing only two human-caused animal fatalities over the last ten years, including Eyare and a North American river otter. The zoo expressed its tragic state over Eyare's passing, asserting their dedication to learning from these incidents for the future enhancement of animal care.
This incident is not isolated; it raises questions about the overall safety standards of zoos across the globe. Proponents of zoos often argue they play important roles in conservation and education, but such tragic events highlight the precarious balance of care versus risks. Eyare’s death ignites discussions about whether animals are genuinely safer under human care or if they would fare much more adequately within their natural habitats.
Despite the sorrow, the Calgary Zoo insists it will strive to prevent similar tragedies. They plan to implement enhanced training, reassess operational procedures, adjust the locations of control levers for access doors, and explore safer designs to replace hydraulic door systems. These action plans signify their commitment to improving protocols meant to safeguard both animals and staff.
Eyare may have left this world far too soon, but her legacy could potentially lead to significant improvements for the treatment of animals within the zoo, ensuring no more lives are cut short due to preventable human errors. The community reflects on the joy she brought and the lessons learned from this deeply saddening event.
