A new video has reignited concern for the western lowland gorillas still living at Bristol Zoo Gardens in Clifton, three years after public closure. The clip shows a gorilla at the window and claims of animals “banging on glass” after urban explorers entered the grounds
Another account describes hours spent inside the former attraction and alleges weak site security, reports the Bristol Post.
Bristol Zoo Gardens closed to the public in 2022.
Zoo Says Gorillas Receive Daily Care
Bristol Zoological Society states the troop remains under routine, specialist care while workers finish their new habitat at the Bristol Zoo Project. Keepers, vets, researchers, and supporters visit each week, with a phased reintroduction to public viewing planned once the move begins, the BBC reports. The society adds that recent posts contain “misinformation” and stresses the animals follow the same daily schedule they had before closure.
Break-Ins Trigger Alarms And Distress
The zoo links repeat trespasses to welfare risks. Intruder alarms wake the troop at night, disrupt sleep, and leave animals lethargic, complicating training for the relocation, the BBC reports. A mammal keeper told the BBC that staff now secure gorillas indoors overnight because of the trespass risk, which removes the animals’ usual choice to move between spaces.
The society says “heightened security” prevents intruders from reaching the apes but alarms still cause distress, UNILAD reports.
Larger Habitat Awaits At New Site
The gorillas are due to move within months to an African Forest habitat at the Bristol Zoo Project, formerly Wild Place Project. Plans call for a home more than four times the size of the current enclosure, with outdoor areas and multiple indoor spaces managed for temperature and comfort, according to the Mirror.
Welfare Questions And Public Pressure
While the zoo defends its approach and urges the public not to trespass, some advocates argue the delay raises welfare concerns. A report from Born Free criticizes the continued housing of great apes at the closed site and warns that repeated disturbances pose safety risks to animals and people.
A troop of western lowland gorillas remains at the zoo’s Clifton site.
What Happens Next
The society says the move will start after final preparations at the new habitat. Until then, staff ask the public to stay away and allow a stable routine as keepers focus on the troop’s health and the logistics of transfer.
Viral Footage Of Window-Banging Gorillas Sparks Fears And Fierce Debate
