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The new stingray exhibit at Assiniboine Park Zoo has unexpectedly had to close due to an escalation in natural mating behaviour.

The zoo said in a Facebook post on Wednesday that the mating has led to injuries to some of the cownose stingrays.

“This kind of behaviour is observed in wild stingrays as well as those in human care,” the zoo said. “While we have seen some improvement, our animal care team requires the opportunity to provide treatment and observe the stingrays at length without outside influences.”

Stingray Beach opened to fanfare over the May long weekend and has proven to be a popular attraction at the zoo.

Officials say they are working to re-open the exhibition as soon as possible and would provide an update on Friday.