Polar bears Calgary Zoo Dies Afte Not Resurfacing From Pool

In a heartbreaking incident, the Calgary Zoo announced the sudden death of one of its beloved polar bears, Baffin, on July 19, 2024. The seven-year-old male polar bear failed to resurface from a pool in the zoo’s Wild Canada Zone, leaving staff and visitors in shock and mourning.

The Incident

The tragic event occurred around 11:30 AM when Baffin and the zoo’s other polar bear, Siku, were seen sparring in the pool—a common behavior for the pair. However, when Baffin did not reappear after going underwater, a volunteer quickly alerted the animal care team. Despite immediate efforts to assess the situation, Baffin was found unresponsive in the pool.

Immediate Response

Jamie Dorgan, the zoo’s interim CEO, expressed the profound impact of Baffin’s death on the zoo community. “It’s obviously a huge shock today,” Dorgan said during a news conference. The veterinary team was called to the scene but found no outward signs indicating the cause of death. Baffin’s body has been sent for a necropsy to determine the exact cause.

Background on Baffin

Baffin, along with Siku, was welcomed to the Calgary Zoo in October 2023 as part of an $11 million expansion to the Wild Canada Zone. Both bears were orphaned before they turned one and were transferred from the Leatherdale International Polar Bear Conservation Centre at Assiniboine Park Zoo in Manitoba. The polar bear habitat at the Calgary Zoo was also designed with expansive meadows, rock features, and several pools, providing a naturalistic environment for the bears.

Impact on the Zoo Community

The loss of Baffin has deeply affected the zoo staff, who spend significant time caring for the animals. “We’re doing everything we can to support the teams, who are of course family with the polar bears,” Dorgan said. The Wild Canada Zone has been temporarily closed as the zoo conducts a thorough investigation.

Visitor Reactions

Visitors who were present at the time of the incident expressed their sorrow and shock. Many had gathered around the exhibit, witnessing the tragic event unfold. The zoo has assured the public that they are taking all necessary steps to understand what happened and also prevent such incidents in the future.

Moving Forward

As the zoo awaits the results of the necropsy, they are focused on supporting their staff. And ensuring the well-being of Siku, the surviving polar bear. The Calgary Zoo remains committed to providing the best care for its animals and continuing its conservation efforts.