An 18-month-old child at ZooAmerica, the walk-through wildlife park at Hersheypark, was treated for minor injuries on Saturday morning, after crawling under an exterior perimeter fence around the wolf habitat. The child made it to the metal viewing fence surrounding the wolves, reached a hand toward the enclosure and a wolf made contact, according to park officials, who emphasized that the injuries were minor.
In a statement to FirstCoastNews, Hershey Entertainment & Resorts said it was "relieved that the child’s injuries were minor" and stressed that the safety of both guests and animals is the company’s top priority. The company said habitats are built with multiple layers of protection and reminded visitors that guests are expected to remain within designated viewing areas.
What Happened at the Wolf Habitat
According to WGAL, a park review found that an unsupervised 18-month-old was able to crawl under the outer perimeter fence, approach the primary metal enclosure and put a hand through the fence. The station reports that a wolf then made contact with the child’s hand and that park officials described the animal’s reaction as "consistent with natural animal behavior," not aggression.
Park Response and Safety Notes
ZooAmerica is an 11-acre walk-through park that sits adjacent to Hersheypark, and its visitor pages outline how exhibits are laid out and how guests can access them. ZooAmerica lists program rules and supervision expectations for families visiting with young children. Hershey Entertainment said it is reviewing the incident to determine whether any additional precautions are needed, the company told FirstCoastNews.
How Exhibits Are Built to Prevent Contact
Industry standards call for layered barriers and secure exhibit design to keep wild animals and visitors safely separated. The Association of Zoos & Aquariums notes that accreditation reviews an institution’s physical facilities, safety protocols and exhibit design with an eye toward reducing risks to both guests and animals.
Visitor Takeaways
Park officials are urging guests to stay inside designated viewing areas and to closely supervise children around any animal exhibit. ZooAmerica notes that children ages 2 and under are typically admitted without charge, and program materials encourage parents and guardians to keep young visitors close at all times.
