Toddler injured in wolf enclosure at Hershey Park zoo

Incident raises concerns over safety protocols at the wildlife park

Apr. 7, 2026 at 6:47am

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An abstract, impressionistic photograph of blurred, colorful shapes and pools of light, conceptually representing the soft, dreamlike atmosphere of a zoo exhibit.The hazy, dreamlike atmosphere of a zoo exhibit belies the need for strict safety protocols to protect both visitors and the animals in their care.Hershey Today

A toddler was injured after entering a restricted area and reaching into a wolf enclosure at ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park in Hershey, Pennsylvania. According to officials, a wolf approached the child and made contact with their hand.

Why it matters

This incident has raised concerns over the safety protocols and security measures in place at the zoo to protect visitors, especially young children, from potentially dangerous animals. It highlights the need for stricter enforcement of rules and better barriers to prevent unauthorized access to animal habitats.

The details

The incident occurred on April 4 at the ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park, which is located within the Hershey Park entertainment complex. A spokesperson for Hershey Entertainment and Resorts Company confirmed that a toddler entered a restricted area and reached into the wolf enclosure, at which point a wolf approached the child and made contact with their hand.

  • The incident took place on April 4, 2026.

The players

ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park

A zoo located within the Hershey Park entertainment complex in Hershey, Pennsylvania, featuring a variety of North American wildlife species.

Hershey Entertainment and Resorts Company

The company that operates Hershey Park and the associated ZooAmerica wildlife park.

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What’s next

The zoo and local authorities are investigating the incident to determine how the child was able to access the restricted wolf enclosure area and what safety measures need to be improved to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of strict safety protocols and secure barriers at zoos and wildlife parks to protect both visitors and the animals in their care. It serves as a wake-up call for Hershey Park and other similar attractions to thoroughly review their safety measures and make any necessary upgrades to ensure the well-being of all guests.