Zebras seized during investigation to remain at Saskatoon’s Forestry Farm

Five zebras that arrived at Saskatoon’s Forestry Farm Park & Zoo after they were seized during a wildlife investigation will be staying at the zoo for the long term.

The dazzle – that’s the term for a group of zebras – arrived at the zoo in 2023 after they were seized from a rural property during an investigation under Saskatchewan’s Captive Wildlife Regulations. After pleading guilty to two violations, a man was ordered to pay $2,800 for illegally possessing the animals.

While they were initially being fostered at the city-run zoo, the Forestry Farm became the zebras’ new owner on Sunday.

“The Government of Saskatchewan has informed the City of Saskatoon that the legal proceedings have concluded and the Province has transferred ownership of the zebras to the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo effective March 31, 2024,” the city explained in a statement.

As the weather warms up, residents will have a better chance to see the zebras at the Forestry Farm. (City of Saskatoon/Submitted)

Jeff Mitchell, the zoo manager, said the staff members at the Forestry Farm have done “an incredible job” working with the animals since they first arrived.

“We are excited for the community to come out and learn more about these magnificent animals,” Mitchell said.

While the African animals – which can’t grow thick coats like horses do – spent much of the winter indoors, the city said they’ll likely be more visible to zoo visitors in the coming weeks as temperatures warm up.

“The herd can typically handle weather down to about negative five degrees Celsius and will typically choose to spend more time in their indoor habitat when temperatures drop,” the city explained.