Welsh Mountain Zoo has confirmed that one of its chimpanzees, Mellony, has experienced the loss of a stillborn infant.
In a statement on Facebook, the zoo said Mellony is currently holding onto her baby, which is a natural and instinctive behaviour commonly observed in chimpanzees following such a loss.
Staff have placed warning signs at the entrances to the chimpanzee viewing areas to alert visitors that the situation may be upsetting, and keepers are available to answer any questions from the public.
Zoo officials said their priority is the wellbeing of the entire chimpanzee troop and that Mellony and her family are being given time to grieve naturally.
Experienced keepers, who work with the troop every day, are carefully monitoring the situation and supporting the animals during what the zoo described as a sensitive time.
Why the enclosure has not been closed
Following questions from people online, the zoo also explained why the chimpanzee area has remained open to visitors.
According to the zoo, maintaining normal routines for the chimpanzee troop is important for their welfare. Closing the viewing area could create sudden changes to their environment, which may cause more distress than allowing their usual routine to continue.
The zoo added that the chimpanzees are accustomed to people being present around their enclosure and often observe visitors themselves, sometimes interacting with them.
Removing that familiar part of their environment could reduce stimulation and choice for the animals, which the zoo said could negatively affect their wellbeing.
Staff thanked visitors for their understanding while Mellony and the troop are given time to process the loss.
