Staff at Sequoia Park Zoo in Eureka, California, received quite the surprise when they spotted a wild American black bear within the facility.
According to a Facebook post from the zoo, the bear was spotted as a crew was conducting a daily inspection of the Redwood Sky Walk. Emergency procedures were immediately implemented and a rapid response was deployed to assess and resolve the situation.
The wild bear did not appear at all aggressive. It simply appeared to be interacting with Tule, Ishลญng, and Kunabulilh, the zoo’s black bears, through their habitat fencing. The animal did not attempt to enter any habitats and was safely coaxed back into the woods through a service gate after a brief exploration of the enrichment items around the night house.
It’s currently unclear how the bear gained access to the zoo, as the perimeter fencing separating the area from the nearby park is still intact and secure. Sequoia Park Zoo will continue to monitor the situation. They thank the Eureka Police Department and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife for their swift response.
Bears and other wild animals call Sequoia Park their home and guests are reminded to behave responsibly by observing wildlife from a distance, staying on marked trails, and always being aware of their surroundings.
