Bristol Zoo, Clifton's famous zoo, remains committed to animal welfare , despite being closed to visitors in September 2022. Recent concern over the gorillas' welfare, highlighted by a viral TikTok video, has prompted zoo officials to reaffirm their commitment. to animals
The viral video is disturbing
On June 25, outsiders broke into the closed zoo and removed the gorilla in its enclosure. A video posted on TikTok questioned the conditions and welfare of the gorillas, sparking public concern.
The zoo's answer
Brian Zimmerman, director of conservation and science at Bristol Zoological Society, emphasized that animal welfare has always been and remains the zoo's top priority. Experienced keepers and dedicated staff continue to care for the gorillas as they did when the zoo was open.
"We are taking this incident very seriously and have reported it to the police," Zimmerman said. He said the gorillas have access to large outdoor spaces and several indoor spaces, with their environment carefully controlled to mimic the warm temperatures of Equatorial Guinea.
Future plans for Gorillas
The gorillas will remain at the Clifton site until their new home at the larger Bristol Zoo, north of the city, is completed next year. The new habitat, designed to resemble a Central African forest, will provide a spacious and enriched environment for gorillas and other endangered species, including mangabeys, slender-snouted crocodiles, African gray parrots and West African freshwater fish.
Constant care and commitment
Despite the zoo's closure, normal animal care continues unchanged. Zookeepers ensure that the gorillas receive the same diet, enrichment and training as before. A recent live stream on the zoo's Facebook page showed keepers feeding the gorillas and explaining how they maintain them all the time.
New developments
The former Bristol Zoo in Clifton, which opened in 1836, is being redeveloped into housing with plans for 196 new homes. The new Central African Forest Environment at the new Bristol Zoo is expected to open in the summer of 2025, providing state-of-the-art facilities for the animals.
Bristol Zoo continues to look after the welfare of its animals during this transition period. The zoo's commitment will ensure the gorillas and other species receive the best possible care until they move to their new, improved habitat next year.
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