Bristol Zoo Slams ‘Misinformed’ Intruders Disturbing Gorillas
Bristol Zoo has ramped up security after intruders broke in, fueled by false claims about the care of its gorillas
Bristol, UK, Bristol Zoo, Gorillas, Security, Misinformation
Bristol: The zoo has been on high alert lately. They’ve had a string of break-ins at the gorilla enclosure, all because of some wild rumors online about the animals not being cared for.
So, Bristol Zoo Project has been dealing with these intrusions at their old site in Clifton, and they’ve even reported it to the police. The zoo claims these break-ins are fueled by false information spreading around.
Some folks thought the gorillas were abandoned, which is just not true. To tackle this, the zoo shared a video on Facebook to show how these disruptions are affecting the animals and the staff. They want to clear up the misconception that the zoo is empty.
In the video, the keepers mentioned that the latest trespassers didn’t get close to the gorillas. Imogen, one of the keepers, said it’s a relief that their new security measures are working, but the loud alarms still stress the gorillas out every time someone sneaks onto the grounds.
The troop of eight gorillas has been living at the Bristol Zoo Gardens since it closed to the public in September 2022. They’re set to move to a new habitat this summer, which is exciting!
This new Central African Forest habitat will be four and a half times bigger than their current home and is designed to mimic the lush forests of Equatorial Guinea, where the zoo is involved in conservation efforts.
Gareth, another keeper, compared the break-ins to someone snooping around a family home. He said it makes the gorillas feel scared and worried, especially the younger ones and the elderly like Jock.
After the break-ins, they’ve noticed that Jock, in particular, is so stressed he doesn’t want to move during their routines.
Hannah Windross, the Director of People and Public Engagement, mentioned that the zoo has faced multiple break-ins since July 2024. Each time, misinformation spreads on social media, leading to more intrusions.
She emphasized that their top priority is the animals’ care and welfare. The keepers have been looking after the gorillas just as they did when the zoo was open to the public.
Hannah hopes that supporters will help raise awareness about the harm these break-ins cause and combat the misleading information about the zoo being empty. The gorillas are still at the Clifton site, and they’re working hard to create a new habitat for them.
Once it opens, the gorillas will be joined by other endangered species, which is something to look forward to!