Zoo workers disciplined for error in owl death
Protocol not followed while moving bird
Two Calgary Zoo workers have been disciplined after a great grey owl flew into a gate in September and died.
Zoo officials say the death — which occurred while staff members were moving the owl from one holding area to another at the zoo’s health centre — is the result of human error.
An investigation into the Sept. 26 incident concluded that two workers failed to follow zoo protocols while handling the owl.
The two zoo workers were supposed to use radios as a communication tool and also failed to maintain a clear line of sight with one another.
“They didn’t take all the necessary precautions. We do hundreds of these kinds of moves every year, so perhaps there was a little complacency,” said spokeswoman Laurie Skene.
Both workers have owned up to the error and taken full responsibility for their actions, she said, noting that animal behaviour is unpredictable.
“There was absolutely no intention on the part of the employees to harm the animal. They feel terrible about it. They are valued employees ... they’ve been here a long time and they made a mistake.”
Zoo officials are not disclosing what disciplinary action was taken against the individuals. The pair is among 49 City of Calgary employees who work as animal keepers at the facility.
The zoo completed its investigation into the incident in just a few days, but a disciplinary process required as part of the city’s collective bargaining agreement took a further eight weeks.
The death leaves only five remaining great grey owls at the Calgary Zoo. The majestic birds are the biggest species of owl on the continent and are considered a sensitive species in Alberta. They are found across Canada and in northern Europe and Asia.
Last year, a keeper at the Calgary Zoo resigned after failing to follow proper handling instructions, which led to the death of a corn snake.
In 2009, a probe was launched after a capybara was crushed in a hydraulic door. The incident followed a string of mistakes and animal deaths at the Calgary Zoo, including a gorilla that got hold of a knife and a baby feather-tailed glider that was stepped on by a keeper.
Since then, the zoo has invested $3.5 million in existing animal facilities. It also plans to spend another $2.7 million in 2013 as part of an effort to “achieve the highest standards of animal care anywhere in North America,” according to the facility.