In a deeply saddening incident, the Calgary Zoo has announced that Eyare, a two-year-old western lowland gorilla, has tragically lost her life after being hit by a hydraulic door at the rear of her exhibit. The shocking accident was confirmed by officials, who stated it resulted from "human error."

Eyare's passing on November 12 came as a jolt to zoo visitors and staff alike. Reports reveal that she sustained injuries while moving between secure areas, out of public sight. Despite the immediate efforts of keepers to perform life-saving procedures, Eyare succumbed to her injuries, leaving a void in both the zoo community and the broader Calgary area.

Colleen Baird, the zoo’s director of animal care, health, and welfare, expressed the collective heartbreak: "Her passing will leave an immense hole in the hearts of our organization and our community. Eyare will be remembered for her playful, curious spirit. Her short, but impactful life brought unending joy to our lives. She will be deeply missed by all."

Following this heartbreaking incident, an official investigation was promptly initiated to determine the precise circumstances surrounding Eyare's death and to assess potential policy changes. The investigation aims to supply essential information about the zoo's infrastructure and its animal-handling protocols. Officials have indicated that video footage from the incident will be reviewed, and staff present at the time will be interviewed.

Baird reassured that moving gorillas between different areas of the zoo is a common operational procedure, and the zoo has protocols in place for these activities. “There are areas in the back-of-house where we do training with gorillas, where we feed them. They’re moving from one location to another off habitat,” she clarified.

The zoo is expected to release detailed findings from the investigation to the public soon, specifically at 9:30 a.m. This incident has raised pressing questions about animal safety and care at zoos, emphasizing the need for rigorous training and operational standards in handling such beautiful, yet delicate creatures.

As the Calgary community mourns the loss of this vibrant young gorilla, animal lovers everywhere are reminded of nature's fragility and the responsibilities that come with caring for wildlife.