The director of conservation at the Calgary Zoo has resigned.
After 20 years at the facility Cathy Gaviller has stepped down to pursue other opportunities.
Gaviller says the past few months have been challenging for both the organization and her personally, and she hopes the decision will help move the zoo forward and begin a new chapter in animal stewardship.
The zoo has been the subject of controversy after several animal deaths and mishaps in recent years.
An outside review by the agency that accredits zoos in North America is currently being conducted at the Calgary Zoo's request.
Julie Woodyer from Zoocheck Canada calls the resignation a positive step, but suggests that Gaviller may have been asked to leave her position.