A female chimpanzee that escaped its enclosure at the Indianapolis Zoo has been safely recaptured, as confirmed by zoo officials. The incident occurred on November 14, 2025, around 10:10 a.m. when local fire crews were dispatched to the zoo following a report of an “animal bite.” The situation was soon upgraded to an “investigation” by about 11 a.m.
By noon, the zoo reported via email that the chimpanzee had been sedated and returned to her exhibit. The zoo emphasized that all guests, staff, and the animal remained unharmed throughout the incident. “Zoo guests were safe at all times. There were no injuries to guests, zoo staff or the animal,” stated the zoo’s communication. They also noted that their security, animal care, and veterinary teams had trained for such emergencies and handled the situation “in a textbook and professional manner.” Following the incident, the zoo reopened without disruption.
Witnesses at the zoo reported that the chimpanzee, believed to be named Mara, was being tranquilized during the escape. Some visitors were temporarily sheltered in enclosed areas such as the dolphin exhibit, while others were escorted from the premises. One school bus driver, Sherman Williams, shared his experience on social media stating he was on a field trip with 37 children at the zoo when the chimpanzee escaped, exclaiming his surprise about the incident.
This episode follows a recent theft at the zoo where two endangered tortoises were reported missing but were later found abandoned in a park about 50 minutes from Indianapolis. These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges zoos face in ensuring the safety of their animals and guests, but the effective response from the Indianapolis Zoo staff demonstrates their commitment to maintaining a safe environment. The quick resolution of this situation serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness and training in zoo operations, offering reassurance to visitors and the community.