Wednesday, October 1, 2025
Paula the Zebra Dies in Habitat Accident at Columbus Zoo
Paula, a beloved zebra at the Columbus Zoo, died after colliding with a habitat gate.

Paula the Zebra Dies in Habitat Accident at Columbus Zoo

Columbus, Ohio – The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has announced the death of Paula, a female zebra, after she sustained fatal injuries when she collided with a separation gate inside her habitat.

Zoo officials described the incident as a “tragic accident,” confirming that there was no evidence of outside disturbances, animal altercations, or underlying health issues among the zebra herd.

A necropsy will be conducted to better understand the specific injuries that caused Paula’s death. In a statement, the zoo expressed deep sadness over the loss, noting Paula’s spirited personality and the joy she brought to guests and staff.

In response to the incident, the Columbus Zoo has introduced new safety measures, including enhanced visual barriers and reinforced fencing within the zebra enclosure. These changes are intended to prevent similar accidents in the future.

Jen Fields, the zoo’s director of communications, said caregivers remain uncertain about how fast Paula was moving at the time of the collision. The gate involved in the incident is used to separate the outdoor yards within the zebra habitat.


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