A female chimpanzee made headlines after escaping her enclosure at the Indianapolis Zoo on November 14, leading to a temporary lockdown while visitors were instructed to shelter in place. The incident unfolded around 10 a.m. when the chimp was spotted outside her exhibit, prompting zoo officials to activate emergency protocols.
According to the zoo’s statement, all guests were moved to secure locations immediately. The Indianapolis Fire Department was called to assist, and by 11:45 a.m., officials confirmed that the situation was under control. The chimpanzee, identified as Mara, who had recently relocated to Indianapolis from a zoo in Puerto Rico earlier this year, was safely sedated and returned to her enclosure without any injuries reported among guests, staff, or the animal.
Witnesses recounted their experiences during the lockdown, describing how they and other visitors were asked to stay inside the dolphin exhibit or their vehicles as they awaited updates. One visitor, Fanchon Bush, accompanying students on a field trip, recalled hearing the sounds of the chimpanzees as they roamed nearby.
The zoo, which houses a total of 21 chimpanzees aged between 13 and 59, resumed normal operations shortly after noon. This incident underscores the importance of the protocols in place, as zoo security and animal care teams responded swiftly and professionally to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
In light of this event, it’s reassuring to note that the zoo’s careful planning and training facilitated a safe resolution. The quick response reflects not only the commitment of zoo staff to the wellbeing of their guests and animals but also enhances the visitor experience by showcasing the complexities of wildlife care in a public space.