Popular UK zoo warns guests of distressing sight throughout ‘delicate time’
Staff at the Welsh Mountain Zoo in Colwyn Bay, North Wales have apologised to families intending to visit the attraction during what they describe as a delicate period
Zoo staff emphasised that the well-being of the chimpanzee family continues to be their utmost priority (stock)(Image: Ian Cooper)
A beloved Welsh zoo has issued a statement to visitors following the tragic death of a newborn chimpanzee. The staff at the Welsh Mountain Zoo have extended their apologies to families intending to visit the Colwyn Bay attraction during this delicate period.
Established in 1963, the Welsh Mountain Zoo is Wales’ oldest and was honoured as the National Zoo of Wales in 2008. Among its inhabitants is Mellony, a mother chimpanzee who has been profoundly impacted by the loss of her baby.
She has been clinging to the newborn – a natural behaviour frequently seen in chimpanzees – and keepers are closely observing her and the rest of the troop as they give her space to mourn.
Staff took to social media to address the situation, acknowledging that it may be upsetting for some guests to see. Clear warning signs have been positioned at the entrances to the chimpanzee viewing areas, and staff are reportedly available to answer any questions, reports Wales Online.
“Our priority is the wellbeing of our chimpanzee family,” a spokesperson stated. “We want to give the mother, Mellony and her family the time to grieve naturally and for this reason it may take some time before the baby is safely retrieved.
“Our experienced keepers, work closely with the chimpanzee troop every day, are carefully monitoring the situation.”
Some visitors have raised concerns about why the chimpanzee enclosure remains open. The zoo clarified that maintaining the area’s accessibility helps preserve a sense of normalcy for the entire troop.
“We’ve kept the area open because it’s important to maintain as much normality as possible for the whole troop,” they added. “Closing the area would alter their routine and environment quite abruptly, which is more likely to cause distress than keeping things consistent.
“The chimps are accustomed to people observing them in their enclosure and reciprocating the attention, sometimes even interacting.
“Removing this familiar aspect of their environment and routine at this time could diminish stimulation and choice, potentially impacting their welfare negatively.”
Zoo staff emphasised that the well-being of the chimpanzee family continues to be their utmost priority. “We apologise for any upset this may cause and thank you for your understanding during this sensitive time.”
