Married Zookeeper Tragically Killed in Rhino Attack, Fellow Keeper Injured
A horrific incident occurred at the Hellbrunn Zoo in Salzburg, Austria, where a married couple working as zookeepers were attacked by a rhinoceros. The female victim, a 33-year-old German citizen from Bavaria, sadly lost her life while carrying out her duties, while her husband was seriously injured as he bravely tried to save her. This devastating incident has left the zoo community and local authorities in shock as they try to understand what led to the tragic attack.
On that fateful day, the woman had been assigned the task of applying insect repellent to the rhino’s body, as these magnificent creatures are highly sensitive to insect bites. It was during this routine task that the 30-year-old female rhino named Jeti unexpectedly attacked the keeper. The exact reason behind the attack remains unclear, leaving officials puzzled.
Austria’s APA news agency reported that the woman succumbed to her injuries at the scene, despite resuscitation attempts. Meanwhile, her husband, a 34-year-old Austrian zookeeper, sustained injuries while trying to protect his wife. He suffered a fractured leg and was immediately transported to a hospital for treatment. His wife, on the other hand, suffered severe chest trauma, which ultimately proved fatal.
The victims’ identities have not been disclosed in accordance with Austrian privacy laws. The husband, a seasoned animal keeper employed at the zoo since 2008, and his wife, a certified animal keeper who joined in 2014 after previous employment in Munich, were known for their professionalism and care towards the animals under their supervision. Their colleagues describe the female victim as a meticulous and thoughtful individual who possessed an innate understanding of animal behavior.
As authorities investigate this tragic incident, many questions surround the circumstances leading to the attack. The zoo director, Sabine Grebner, indicated that there may have been some kind of irritation or unforeseen event that triggered the rhino’s aggression. The safety regulations at the zoo will be thoroughly reviewed to prevent such incidents in the future. Notably, no previous incidents have occurred at the rhino enclosure, which was established almost three decades ago.
Jeti, weighing an impressive 1.8 tons, has resided at the Salzburg Zoo since 2009. This gentle rhino was usually cooperative and never displayed any signs of aggression. In fact, she acted as a nurturing figure to younger animals within the zoo and even gave birth to a cub in 2015. The zoo director emphasized the excellent temperament and obedience of all the rhinos at the facility. According to her, veterinarians can draw their blood without anesthesia, and the rhinos promptly respond when called by their names.
In the wake of this tragedy, Salzburg Zoo has decided to temporarily close its doors to the public on Tuesday and Wednesday. This period will allow the staff to grieve, offer support to the injured keeper, and conduct a thorough investigation into the incident.
While the cause of the rhino’s aggression remains unknown, this unfortunate event serves as a powerful reminder of the inherent risks faced by zookeepers around the world. These dedicated individuals work tirelessly to care for our planet’s magnificent creatures, and we must ensure their safety as they fulfill their vital roles in wildlife conservation.
As the global zoo community mourns the loss of a passionate animal keeper, our thoughts and condolences go out to the victims’ family, friends, and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time.
