CT's Beardsley Zoo In Bridgeport To Reopen After Receiving 'Series Of Threatening Calls': Update

BRIDGEPORT, CT — Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo in Bridgeport will reopen on Wednesday at its normal time, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., after its closure on Tuesday, officials announced. The popular zoo was closed to the public Tuesday after the venue received "a series of threatening calls that prompted precautionary safety measures."

Zoo staff implemented established emergency protocols, including a temporary lock-in/lock-out procedure, while working with the Bridgeport Police Department and local emergency management officials.

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Officials said the closure was enacted out of an abundance of caution as authorities assessed the situation. As of Tuesday, May 5, operations were continuing under standard safety procedures, with no confirmed credible threat reported.

The exact nature of the calls was not disclosed.

"Recent reports, along with guidance from law enforcement agencies, have identified an increase in hoax calls, referred to as 'swatting' that have been targeting public spaces, including zoos," officials said in a statement. "While no credible threats have been confirmed in these incidents, the calls are taken seriously and require a full response from public safety agencies."

Added Dr. Jim Wharton, chief executive officer of the zoo, "Our priority is always the safety and well-being of our visitors, staff, and animals. We are following all appropriate protocols and working in coordination with our public safety partners."