News Tama Zoo halts operations over escaped wolf

[thomas]

A wolf managed to break out of its enclosure at Tama Zoological Park in Hino on 28 December, leading to a temporary shutdown and an abrupt end to the park's year. Shortly after opening at 9:30, staff were alerted that one of the facility's two tundra wolves had escaped and was on a public walkway.

The situation was resolved around 14:30 when workers successfully subdued the animal with tranquilliser guns. The zoo confirmed that no one was hurt during the incident, though the park remained closed to visitors for the remainder of the year.

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A nearby resident said the incident was alarming, adding that while they did not think the animal would leave the grounds, the situation was still frightening given the zoo's proximity to residential areas. Following the incident, Tama Zoological Park decided to close for the day and end operations for the remainder of the year. The park is scheduled to reopen on 2 January. Zoo staff said there is still no clear timeline for resuming regular operations, but confirmed that safety checks are being conducted to prevent a recurrence.

Escaped Wolf Recaptured as Tama Zoo Halts Operations

A wolf that escaped from its enclosure at Tama Zoological Park in Hino, western Tokyo, was captured on December 28, prompting the zoo to close temporarily and bring its operations for the year to an early end.

newsonjapan.com