The Buffalo Zoo said it was the victim of an unsubstantiated bomb threat on Monday.
“At around 2:30 p.m. Monday, the Buffalo Zoo received an unsubstantiated bomb threat similar to ones reported at zoos around the United States in recent months. The Zoo immediately implemented its safety protocols, including a call to law enforcement,” Zoo officials said in a statement. “The threat was investigated by the Buffalo Police Department and it was determined that there was no active danger on Zoo grounds. Normal operations were resumed, and out of an abundance of caution, Buffalo police continue to remain in the area.”
Buffalo Police investigated and said there was no active danger to the zoo grounds.
The zoo said this was a likely “swatting” incident, similar to those seen at zoos across the country in recent months. According to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), there have been approximately 40 similar swatting episodes at zoos and aquariums nationwide.
“The Buffalo Zoo greatly appreciates the coordinated, quick and effective response by the Buffalo Police Department and Zoo staff. The threat was believed to be a non-credible “swatting” incident, which typically involves a false emergency call that seeks to elicit a police response. The safety of Zoo guests, staff and animals is a top priority, and the threat was treated as real,” the statement continued.
The Buffalo Zoo will operate at normal hours on Tuesday.