The Memphis Zoo has closed its bonobo exhibit for glass repairs after it was damaged by a primate that jumped at an onlooker.
Video reviewed by NBC News shows the bonobo hitting the safety glass between leaps towards the animal’s laughing and smiling parents.
In a statement, the zoo said the incident happened on Thursday and suggested the bonobo may have been abused by visitors or left.
“Disruptive behavior in exhibits does not just damage property,” the zoo said. “This has meaningful implications for the animals’ daily routines and well-being, which is why respectful behavior is essential.”
The zoo did not breach the barrier, but damage to the reinforced safety glass, which is produced in layers and sometimes including acrylic and glass, led to long-term closures to await replacement for a “specially manufactured” item.
No guests were harmed; Likewise for the bonobo, the zoo said.
“The habitat is constructed with multiple layers of reinforced safety glass that meets stringent safety standards,” the zoo said. “The extra layers remain completely intact, and there is no violation of the habitat.”
During the closure, the zoo said the bonobos would not have a full run of habitat.
“Bonobos have limited access to parts of their outdoor habitat, which directly affects their ability to fully utilize the space,” it said.
The zoo urged visitors to always behave – for the sake of the animals.
“We welcome families and guests of all ages, and we ask everyone to be respectful when visiting the exhibits,” the zoo said. “That means hitting the glass, yelling at the animals, abusing them, or crowding the display barriers.”
The International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources classifies the primate, about the size of a chimpanzee and occasionally able to walk on two feet, as endangered. The Wisconsin National Primate Resource Center says some of its habitat in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is covered under protected status, but enforcement is uncertain.
