Ape Cracks Window at Memphis Zoo When It Launches at Guests

Zoo officials believe the bonobo was "taunted" by visitors

NEED TO KNOW

• A bonobo cracked the glass while lunging at visitors at the ape enclosure at the Memphis Zoo on Thursday, Feb. 26
• The incident resulted in a “prolonged closure” of the bonobo exhibit
• The primate was not hurt in the incident and did not escape the enclosure

A bonobo cracked the glass while lunging at visitors of the apes' enclosure at the Memphis Zoo on Thursday, Feb. 26.

Video of the incident obtained by local outlet Action 5 News shows a group of three of apes near the glass, when one grabs what appears to be a ball of hay and lunges into the safety glass, causing a large crack as visitors can be heard reacting in the background.

"Disruptive behavior at exhibits does not just damage property," the zoo said in a statement to NBC News. "It has meaningful consequences for the animals’ daily routines and wellbeing, which is why respectful conduct is essential."

The zoo confirmed that the bonobo exhibit will experience a "prolonged closure" while the safety glass is repaired. The barrier was not breached and the ape did not escape, per zoo officials. The bonobo was not injured in the incident.

"The habitat is constructed with multiple layers of reinforced safety glass that meet rigorous safety standards," the zoo's statement said. "The additional layers remained fully intact, and there was no breach of the habitat."

The bonobos will not have full access to their habitat while repairs take place, the zoo said.

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Visitors were encouraged to remain respectful when engaging with the animals. "We welcome families and guests of all ages, and we ask everyone to be respectful when visiting exhibits," the zoo's statement read. "That means not striking the glass, shouting at animals, taunting them, or crowding exhibit barriers."

Bonobos, a primate in the ape family, are classified as an endangered species, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources. The primates are almost the same size as chimpanzees, and have similar mobility.

PEOPLE has reached out to a representative for the Memphis Zoo for further comment.

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