Twycross Zoo is renowned for its exceptional care and conservation efforts for chimpanzees. The zoo’s chimpanzee habitat is a state-of-the-art facility, designed in collaboration with the University of Birmingham, to house all 17 chimpanzees in two seven-meter-high indoor habitats and a large outdoor area with climbing frames.
Twycross Zoo’s Chimpanzee Population
Twycross Zoo is home to 17 chimpanzees, including:
| Name | Gender |
|---|---|
| Coco | Female |
| Noddy | Male |
| Josie | Female |
| Samantha | Female |
| Peter | Male |
| Jomar | Male |
| Tommy | Male |
| Kibali | Male |
| Rosie | Female |
| Tojo | Male |
| Lottie | Female |
| Holly | Female |
| Josie | Female |
| Victoria | Female |
| Genet | Female |
| Tuli | Female |
| Flynn | Male |
| William | Male |
| Jambo | Male |
These chimpanzees live in groups controlled by a dominant male, with a strict hierarchy and male-male bonds being crucial. Females move to another group when they mature.
Chimpanzee Behavior and Communication
Chimpanzees are highly social animals with a complex range of communication methods, including:
- Hoots
- Pants
- Screams
- Body language
- Grooming
- Facial expressions
They forage in family groups for most of the day, collecting various leaves, fruits, flowers, and pith. Males also form organized hunting parties for meat.
Twycross Zoo’s Chimpanzee Conservation Efforts
Twycross Zoo is leading a study on improving care and nutrition practices for European chimpanzees, focusing on vitamin D levels. The study found that a significant number of chimpanzees in Europe have inadequate vitamin D levels, which could lead to health issues, including a mysterious heart disease known as IMF. This research aims to enhance the health and well-being of these endangered animals.
Chimpanzee Habitat at Twycross Zoo
Twycross Zoo’s chimpanzee habitat, Chimpanzee Eden, provides a spacious and engaging environment for the chimps, with outdoor climbing frames designed to replicate their natural challenges. Visitors can observe the chimps up close through glass tunnels connecting the indoor and outdoor areas.
Recent Developments at Twycross Zoo
Recently, a 32-year-old chimpanzee named Peter was relocated from Twycross Zoo to Blair Drummond Safari Park in Scotland to initiate a breeding program. This move allowed for the reintegration of Tommy, an elderly chimp, into the larger troop of 12 chimpanzees, including the dominant male, Jambo.
Supporting Twycross Zoo’s Chimpanzee Conservation
Twycross Zoo offers opportunities to support its animals and conservation efforts through its Amazon Wishlist, which includes items for animal enrichment and habitat maintenance.
Conclusion
Twycross Zoo’s commitment to chimpanzee conservation and research is truly remarkable. The zoo’s state-of-the-art facilities, dedicated staff, and innovative approaches to improving chimpanzee health and well-being make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in these fascinating primates.
References:
– Twycross Zoo Leads Study to Help Improve Care and Nutrition Practices in European Chimpanzees
– Chimpanzee
– Chimpanzees at Twycross Zoo Enjoy Outdoor Adventure
– Twycross Zoo Chimpanzees
– Twycross Zoo Chimpanzees