ABQ BioPark Elephant Safely Returns to Habitat
Alice is unharmed and at no point were staff or guests at risk
At approximately 7:30 this morning, 52-year-old Asian elephant Alice was found by Zoo Security briefly outside of her primary habitat area. Animal care staff were notified and arrived on site within 10 minutes and initiated emergency response protocol. The staff were able to call Alice safely back to her habitat. No other elephants left the habitat, and no staff were ever in harm’s way. Alice has no injuries but will remain under close monitoring by animal care staff.
The Zoo was closed at the time, so no guests were present on grounds during this event.
The Zoo delayed opening for 30 minutes while paths were cleared of debris from where Alice ate plants and trees in the vicinity of her habitat. Staff located the section of perimeter fencing to the elephant habitat that was compromised and it has been secured, with repairs and reinforcement underway. That area of the elephant habitat will remain closed while the fence is repaired and reinforced.
The BioPark routinely runs drills to practice response to all types of emergencies, and today, the staff executed that protocol perfectly. Because the elephant care team has developed a deep and trusting bond with Alice, she walked safely and calmly back to her habitat when called.