Buffalo Zoo statement regarding Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep

At approximately 9:45 a.m. on Wednesday, June 17, male Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, Colby, got out of his habitat while staff were in the process of transferring him to a different exhibit.

Following the Buffalo Zoo’s established protocols, our staff quickly contained the animal and transported him securely to his new habitat. At no point was the animal outside Buffalo Zoo grounds.

The Zoo was still closed to the public at the time of the incident. There were no injuries to staff or animals.  Our animal care and veterinary teams prepare diligently for these scenarios, responding in an efficient and professional manner.  We are reviewing the circumstances surrounding the situation, and the Zoo is open and operating as normal.

The Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep habitat will be undergoing a major renovation.  The full herd will be on view in their temporary location tomorrow on the Destination Dinosaur Trail.