Introduction

In a heartbreaking development, the Calgary Zoo has announced the unexpected death of a young western lowland gorilla named Eyare. The two-year-old female gorilla suffered injuries while moving between back-of-house areas on Tuesday, prompting immediate attention from the zoo's veterinary team.

Efforts to Save Eyare

Despite the best efforts of the care team, Eyare sadly succumbed to her injuries. The specific nature of the incident remains under investigation, and details about how she was injured have not been disclosed to the public.

Director's Statement

Colleen Baird, the director of animal care, health, and welfare at the zoo, expressed the profound sense of loss felt by staff and visitors alike. "Her passing will leave an immense hole in the hearts of our organization and our community," Baird said. "Eyare will be remembered for her playful, curious spirit. Her short, but impactful life brought unending joy to our lives, and she will be deeply missed by all."

Necropsy and Monitoring

The zoo has announced that a necropsy will be conducted to determine the full extent of Eyare's injuries. Staff members are closely monitoring the other gorillas in the troop, as they process the loss of their young companion.

Eyare's Legacy

Eyare was born at the Calgary Zoo in 2022, where she quickly became a beloved figure for both staff and visitors. Unfortunately, her death marks the third announcement of animal losses over the past week. Earlier, the zoo reported the euthanization of Callie, an 18-year-old Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, due to age-related health concerns, and Wilbur, a wild boar suffering from similar degenerative issues.

Community Mourning

As the Calgary Zoo grapples with this series of tragedies, the community is invited to share in remembering Eyare and honoring the legacy left behind by this remarkable young gorilla.