Image: Source: Wikimedia Commons
Two bull sharks have died at Sydney Zoo following what the facility describes as an “accidental impact.” In a statement posted to social media on Friday, the zoo said it was “deeply saddened” by the loss of its aquarium inhabitants.
The announcement followed thorough internal and external investigations, including detailed necropsies conducted by veterinary and marine specialists.
These examinations, the Western Sydney Zoo said, revealed trauma consistent with blunt-force impact.
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“While the precise cause cannot be definitively confirmed,” the statement read, “preliminary findings suggest a combination of environmental and biological factors may have played a role in this isolated incident.”
The zoo continued to assure the public that all other aquatic species in the exhibit are currently healthy and remain closely monitored.
“The wellbeing of our animals remains our highest priority,” it said.
Public questions Sydney Zoo over vague explanation
Despite reassurances, the news sparked backlash across social media. Many questioned the zoo’s lack of transparency, particularly the vague explanation of an “accidental impact.”
The zoo did not specify whether the sharks collided with the tank structure, another object, or each other.
“Accidental impact from WHAT? I think further explanation is owed here,” one commenter demanded.
Others expressed frustration with the very notion of keeping sharks in captivity.
“Leave them in the ocean where they belong,” another posted.
Zoo disables comments on post in response to backlash
In response to the incident, the bull shark listing has already been removed from the zoo’s official site—and has since disabled comments on its social media post.
Bull sharks, classified as endangered and known for their aggression, have been involved in 119 reported attacks on humans in Australia. They are a rare species can thrive in both saltwater and freshwater environments, typically range between two to four metres in length, and can weigh up to 600kgs.
The zoo has not indicated whether it will release further details or review its marine animal care protocols in light of the deaths.
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