PITTSBURGH, PA – The recent series of animal deaths at the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium has sparked concerns among staff members and zoo leadership. Amidst the loss of five beloved animals over seven months, the zoo’s president and CEO, Dr. Jeremy Goodman, expressed deep sadness during a press conference on Monday. Emotions have run high at both the zoo and their International Conservation Center in Somerset County.
The zoo has taken steps to support staff members through this challenging time, including providing access to grief counselors. Dr. Goodman emphasized the staff’s unwavering dedication to animal welfare, despite the difficult circumstances. With over 8,000 animals in their care, the zoo regularly experiences the loss of 15 to 25 mammals annually.
In a bid for transparency, Dr. Goodman highlighted the importance of openly discussing the deaths of their animals with the board, staff, and community. While the zoo typically celebrates milestones and births, sharing news of deaths and tragedies is a newly embraced practice. The CEO reiterated the unchanged protocols for animal health and safety, emphasizing that the care provided remains top-notch.
The recent cluster of animal deaths, while unusual, has no apparent connection. Three of the deceased animals were considered geriatric, including a sea lion, red panda, and gorilla, while the elephant and lion were younger. Despite the tragic circumstances, the zoo assures the public that every medical procedure is rigorously reviewed for safety measures, with no evidence of human error found in any.
As the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium works towards regaining its Association of Zoos and Aquariums Accreditation, the recent losses are not expected to hinder their progress. Dr. Goodman stressed the staff’s commitment to caring for each animal and mourning their losses, underscoring the zoo’s dedication to animal well-being and visitor safety. Through transparency and ongoing improvements, the facility aims to rebuild trust and credibility within the community.
The zoo’s dedication to animal welfare and safety remains paramount as they navigate through this challenging period. Despite the setbacks, the staff’s resilience and commitment to excellence in animal care shine through, ensuring a continued focus on providing the best possible environment for the animals under their care.