The Memphis Zoo has closed its bonobo exhibit for glass repairs after it was damaged by a primate that launched toward onlookers.
Video verified by NBC News shows a bonobo strike the safety glass amid a leap toward patrons who are laughing and giggling at the animal.
In a statement, the zoo said the incident happened Thursday and suggested the bonobo may have been taunted or set off by visitors.
“Disruptive behavior at exhibits does not just damage property,” the zoo said. “It has meaningful consequences for the animals’ daily routines and wellbeing, which is why respectful conduct is essential.”
The zoo said the barrier was not breached, but damage to the reinforced safety glass, produced in layers and sometimes including acrylic as well as glass, would result in a prolonged closure to wait for a replacement for the “specially fabricated” item.
No guests were harmed; likewise for the bonobo, the zoo said.
“The habitat is constructed with multiple layers of reinforced safety glass that meet rigorous safety standards,” the zoo said. “The additional layers remained fully intact, and there was no breach of the habitat.”
During the closure, bonobos will not have a full run of the habitat, the zoo said.
“The bonobos will have limited access to portions of their outdoor habitat, which directly affects their ability to fully utilize their space,” it said.
The zoo urged visitors to always behave — for the animals’ sake.
“We welcome families and guests of all ages, and we ask everyone to be respectful when visiting exhibits,” the zoo said. “That means not striking the glass, shouting at animals, taunting them, or crowding exhibit barriers.”
The International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources classifies the primate, about the size of a chimpanzee and able to walk occasionally on two feet, as endangered. The Wisconsin National Primate Resource Center says some of its habitat, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, is covered under protected status, but enforcement is not assured.
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