CALGARY – A zookeeper responsible for the escape of some gorillas at the Calgary Zoo has been fired.
Last week, several western lowland apes — which can weigh as much as 270 kilograms — got into what is known as the gorilla kitchen from their enclosure in the rainforest exhibit.
The zoo says a review of what happened determined a zookeeper, who received a minor injury, failed to properly latch a door.
Curator Malu Celli says the keeper is no longer employed at the zoo.
She says the public was never at risk and it is fortunate that neither the gorillas nor any employees were seriously hurt.
Celli says the gorillas are very strong and can attack if threatened.
FILED UNDER: Gorilla escape
