Guinea Pigs Found Dead at Edmonton Valley Zoo
May 27, 2010
Police investigation underway
Sixty-four guinea pigs at the Edmonton Valley Zoo died in their enclosure overnight Tuesday. One animal found alive, subsequently died Wednesday morning, bringing the total to 65. Seven guinea pigs remain. Initial evidence indicates the animals were deliberately poisoned. Edmonton Police Service is investigating.
“We are shocked and saddened by these deaths,” said Dean Treichel, operations supervisor at the Edmonton Valley Zoo. “The guinea pigs are a favourite with families and school groups who visit the zoo.” Zoo staff is working with leading experts from across the country to determine an exact cause of death.
The guinea pigs were alive when zoo staff performed their evening check on Tuesday May 25. Zoo staff discovered the dead animals when they entered the enclosure at 8am on May 26. Oranges, which were not given to the guinea pigs by zoo staff and were not present the previous evening, were discovered in the pen.
The Edmonton Valley Zoo is committed to the care and safety of all of the animals. The Zoo is reviewing its security procedures and assisting police with all aspects of the investigation.
This is the first incident of possible poisoning to occur at the zoo.
For more information:
Mary Lou Reeleder
| Title | Communications, Community Services |
|---|---|
| Telephone | 780-442-0970 |
| marylou.reeleder@edmonton.ca |
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