Toddler injured by wolf at Zoo America after crawling under a fence to enclosure
A child was slightly injured Saturday morning after crawling under a fence at Zoo America in Pennsylvania and approaching a wolf enclosure.
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The 18-month-old child, unsupervised, climbed the park’s fence and walked toward the wolves’ main metal enclosure, according to a Zoo America news release, where the child stuck his hand through the fence.
“A wolf approached and made contact with the child’s hand,” the zoo said. “This type of response is consistent with the natural behavior of animals and is not a sign of aggression.”
At no time was the toddler inside the wolf’s enclosure, according to Zoo America’s review of the incident.
The child and his family have not been identified by Zoo America. No details of the injuries were provided, although they were described as minor by the zoo.
Zoo America said the safety of its visitors was a top priority, but guests should also “stay in designated areas and closely supervise children at all times.”
“Our habitats are designed with multiple levels of protection, and clear signage and barriers are in place to ensure safe viewing,” the zoo said.
Zoo America is part of the Hersheypark amusement park in Hershey, Pennsylvania. The sprawling entertainment campus boasts being the largest amusement park in the United States and includes its theme park, zoo and boardwalk.
The zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and leads a dedicated conservation effort. He participates in the Species Survival Plan program, which works towards a sustainable and genetically diverse population of specifically designated species.
