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Health & Fitness

Mexican Gray Wolf Killed: An Unfortunate Incident, But Zoo Acted Responsibly

It is unfortunate that the wolf had to be killed, but the Zoo is not only a conservation entity, it is also a public recreational facility.

The controversy that followed the escape and euthanizing of the needs to be taken in context. It is unfortunate that the wolf had to be killed, but the Zoo is not only a conservation entity, it is also a public recreational facility.

In the Pioneer Press, a comparison was made between the escape of some wolves from the Wildlife Science Center in Ely, MN and the escape at the Zoo. The Ely wolf was tranquilized and saved, the Zoo wolf was shot and killed. 

But a direct comparison has some flaws. The Ely wolf had a wide area to roam. It had plenty of places to hide to avoid human contact. The Zoo wolf had wandered into very public areas and pathways. The Ely officials had some time to evaluate and make a plan of action, while the Zoo had to act quickly and decisively.

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The Zoo has taken some criticism for its quick decision to euthanize the wolf. But think how much angrier we would be if a child had been bitten or attacked. Think of how much the Zoo as a whole would have suffered in such a tragic circumstance.

I wish that the wolf could have been saved. They are beautiful and interesting creatures. Conservation and study is obviously still the main goal for keeping them at the Zoo. But when we mix wild creatures in an enclosed public environment, there are risks. The safety and life value of all must be considered.

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In my opinion, the Zoo acted responsibly. They acted in a manner that upheld the public trust we have placed in them. These incidents are fortunately rare, but it is good to know that the Zoo administration knows how to act in the interest of public safety and in the best interest of all the animals at the park.

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