Paignton Zoo reopens after two gibbons escape enclosure

Staff have recaptured the pair, who didn't stray far from their home

The two gibbons escaped from their enclosure yesterday
Author: Sophie SquiresPublished 15th Sep 2022
Last updated 15th Sep 2022

Paignton Zoo have recaptured two gibbons that escaped from their enclosure yesterday (Wednesday 14 September).

The pair found their way into trees next to their island home. Visitors were evacuated as a precautionary measure, in accordance with the Zoo's escaped animal procedure.

The Devon site has now officially reopened. A spokesperson said: "Yesterday afternoon, two gibbons escaped from their enclosure at Paignton Zoo into trees next to their island home.

"Zoo staff regularly carry out escape drills and follow a strict protocol for dealing with events such as this.

"Staff were quickly able to recapture one of the animals and the second was contained within a secure area by late afternoon.

"Contrary to some earlier reporting, at no point during this situation were animals ‘missing’ or unaccounted for, and the animals have not strayed more than 50m from their home.

"Staff successfully moved the animal from this secure area back to its home this morning and we are now reopen to the public."

The Zoo are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the escape.

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