A zebra foal has had to be put to sleep at the Wild Place Project after it sustained injuries while playing.
Wallace suffered injuries after hitting a gate while playing on Tuesday, May 10. The Wild Place Project said that its animal team immediately provided care and called the Bristol Zoological Society’s veterinary team to attend.
The statement said that, despite their best efforts, his injuries were severe and the veterinary team made the sad and difficult decision to put him to sleep. Wallace was one of three zebras at Wild Place Project, alongside his mother Florence, and father, Peter.
Read more: New Upfest 2022 artwork starts to emerge in south Bristol
Brian Zimmerman, director of conservation and science, said: “In such a short time, Wallace had found his way into the hearts of so many. We are all deeply upset by the accident; his arrival was eagerly anticipated and he has brought so much joy to the team and to our visitors.”
On its Facebook page, the Wild Place Project said that Wallace was born on April 16 and that the keepers are keeping a close eye on his parents.
Wallace was a plains zebra, which is classified as Near Threatened on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species. Their numbers are in decline in their native Africa due to hunting and loss of habitat.
Bristol Zoological Society, which is a registered conservation charity that prioritises animal welfare, is offering support to employees.
Dozens of people wrote under the post to voice their devastation.
Beccy McHugh wrote: "Absolutely heartbreaking. I'm so sorry for all of you!" While Alison Sims said: "I'm so sorry - such tragic news...thinking of all the keepers, can't imagine how hard it must be to deal with this ..."
And Ruth Ferris wrote: "Such sad sad news. Poor little boy and poor Florence losing her baby. Thinking of all your keepers and staff who must be devastated."
