Expert panel begins probe of Calgary Zoo

CALGARY - Canada's second-largest zoo, boasting over 2,000 animals across more than 100 acres of land, will be scrutinized with a fine-tooth comb, says a team of experts here to review the Calgary Zoo's animal care practices.

After a series of controversial deaths and accidents surrounding animal care, the Calgary Zoo has invited five experts from institutions accredited by the Canadian Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums based in the United States.

Experts confirmed today they will spend two and a half days on site, including a meeting with staff Tuesday evening where they will be invited to speak with experts individually and confidentially if they wish.

Zoo officials announced the review in December after a capybara, a species of giant rodent, died when it was caught in a hydraulic door. The death was blamed on human error. An employee was suspended without pay for two days for not following proper protocols.

The Canadian zoo association has been collaborating with its U.S. counterpart to develop the review, which is expected to conclude by mid-March.

Several unusual zoo incidents over the years have drawn public ire.

Four mule deer have died at the zoo since September, two of long-term illness, one after injuring itself on a fence and another of a broken neck. Last January, a Turkmenian markhor, a species of wild goat, died after getting entangled in a rope and choking to death.

Several months later, a visitor to the zoo snapped photos of a gorilla with a knife after it was left behind by a keeper.

A number of other animals have died at the facility in the past six years, including two young elephants and four gorillas. In 2008, 41 cow nose rays died just months after the new exhibit opened.

Groups such as Zoocheck Canada and the Calgary Animal Rights Coalition have called for a more stringent audit of Calgary Zoo practices and policies, saying industry associations are not independent enough.