Wolf Injures Toddler at ZooAmerica After Hand Enters Enclosure

An 18-month-old toddler sustained minor injuries Saturday, April 4, 2026, at ZooAmerica in Hershey. The child put their hand through a barrier in a wolf habitat and contact occurred.

What happened

Park officials say the toddler crawled under an exterior perimeter fence. The child then reached the wolf enclosure and extended a hand through the barrier.

According to the park, a wolf approached and made contact with the child’s hand. The child was never inside the animal’s enclosure.

Injuries and immediate response

The incident left the toddler with minor injuries. Park staff responded to the scene following the contact.

No indication of aggressive behavior was given by officials. They described the wolf’s action as consistent with normal animal behavior.

Park statement and safety measures

ZooAmerica emphasized guest safety and animal welfare as top priorities. Officials noted habitats include multiple layers of protection, clear signage, and barriers.

The park reminded visitors to remain within designated areas. Staff urged close supervision of children at all times.

Context and nearby disturbances

The contact occurred less than a day after police increased their presence at the park. Officers had been called following multiple fights between groups of teens.

Those earlier disturbances prompted arrests and heightened attention during the park’s opening day.

Filmogaz.com reported a photograph of the ZooAmerica entrance was taken April 4, 2026. The image appeared after the child was injured.