Avian Influenza Protocols

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has confirmed the presence of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) within 200 kilometres of the Wilder Institute’s Calgary Zoo.

The health and well-being of the animals in our care remains our top priority. Out of an abundance of caution, we’re proactively implementing the following measures to protect our avian species:

  • Footbaths have been installed at the entrances to The Larry Ruskin Penguin Plunge, the Jihad Shibley Rocky Mountain Aviary, and the African Rainforest Aviary for all staff, volunteers, guests, and contractors entering these spaces.
  • Birds will continue to have outdoor access where appropriate and weather permitting.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support as we work to keep the animals we love safe.

Animal Viewing Impacts and Closures

Grizzly Bears: Our grizzly bear cubs are currently off-habitat to support their first winter sleep.

West Gate Closure

Due to significant construction activities in and around Imagine Asia, the zoo’s West Gate will remain closed until at least 2028/2029. This necessary step supports the safe movement of visitors while we undertake exciting improvements to animal habitats and visitor experiences.

African crested porcupine

Bite-Sized

Welcoming a New Addition to Our Prickle

February 10, 2026 | 1 minute read

Get ready to meet a por-cute-pine! We’re thrilled to announce a tiny new addition to our African Savannah family!

On February 3rd, our 13-year-old female African crested porcupine ‘Caleefa’ and her mate, 13-year-old ‘Bristle’, welcomed a porcupette.  This is the pair’s third offspring since Caleefa joined our zoo family in 2021. While it’s still early days, the little one is nursing well, bonding with mom and dad, and has been curiously exploring the back of house space. At this time, the porcupette has not yet been sexed.

The prickle has access to back of house bedrooms where they are currently spending most of their time. You may see the trio venture onto habitat periodically if they choose. Join us in welcoming our new addition!

Categories

Related News

Remembering Takoda

We’re saddened to share that last month, our Animal Care, Health & Welfare (ACHW) team made the compassionate decision to euthanize Takoda, a 10-year-old male grey wolf, due to a rapid progression…

Read More

Remembering Fabio

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Fabio, a beloved member of our peafowl muster.  Earlier this month, Fabio, a 15-year-old free-roaming peacock, was struck on a back service road by…

Read More