The zoo claims that employees went into the water and yelled at Ripley to try to entice him back. After roughly 20 minutes, the hawk flew to them, resulting a safe recovery and return to the zoo. According to zoo officials, Ripley is currently being cared for at the facility’s veterinary department and is in good health with only minor issues.
Missing Hawk from Bird Show Returns to CA Zoo 15 Months Later
Incident Date:
08/16/2025
Location:
Fresno, CA - USA
Facility Name:
Fresno Chaffee Zoo
Facility Type:
Accredited AZA Facility (AZA)
Incident Category:
Escape of animal (EA)
Species:
Other
Animal:
Harris's Hawk
Animal disposition:
Recaptured
Summary:
FRESNO, CA – A missing hawk was safely returned to a Fresno Chaffee Zoo. On August 12, the zoo made an announcement about Ripley’s return, informing everyone of how the rare animal escaped.
Action take by Born Free USA:
Notes: