Antwerp (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Antwerp Zoo is introducing owl-faced monkeys to the gorilla enclosure, using tape on windows as a temporary measure for safety during their adjustment. Spokesperson Ilse Segers emphasized this change aims to enhance animal welfare by creating a more engaging environment for both species.
At Antwerp ZOO, visitors have seen tape on the windows of the gorilla area. This has made people curious because it is not normal to see this in a place for big primates. Many visitors talked about it on social media, asking why the tape was there.
According to Ilse Segers, who speaks for the zoo, the tape is just a temporary solution. It is not for birds but is part of a change in the enclosure. The zoo plans to add a second type of primate, the owl-faced monkey, to share the space with the gorillas. He mentioned that this change is meant to help animal welfare by making the environment more interesting for the animals.
How will tape on windows help Gorillas and Owl-faced monkeys adjust together?
According to authorities, bringing 2 types of monkeys together in one space is a plan to help them connect and make a home that looks like their natural habitat. They mentioned that the tape on the windows is there to help the gorillas and the new owl-faced monkeys adjust to living together.
Officials mentioned that it can reduce stress and stop them from bumping into the glass while they explore. By encouraging them to interact, Antwerp ZOO wants to improve their health and give visitors a chance to see how different monkey species behave together.
“We are bringing two species together for the welfare of the animals: the owl-faced monkeys are coming into the enclosure with the gorillas,”
Says Ilse Segers of Antwerp ZOO.
According to Ilse Segers, they are watching the animals and letting them adjust at their own pace. At first, one owl-faced monkey hit the glass by mistake. To prevent this, the zoo put tape on the windows. The tape helps the monkeys see the glass and keeps them safe as they get used to their new home.
“In the introduction process, we follow the rhythm of the animals. In the beginning, an owl-faced monkey jumped against the window once and that is why we have now put that tape on so that they realize that it is a glass barrier.”
Ilse Segers says.
The owl-faced monkeys are moving from a small building to a bigger area at the zoo. This new space has an outdoor section where they can feel the grass and get fresh air. Officials mentioned that it is a big improvement for them. The gorillas will also enjoy this change.
According to Zoo management, gorillas like to watch the monkeys jump and climb. This setup is similar to what happens in the wild. They mentioned that visitors will have a great chance to see them interact in a natural environment.
“The animals can also meet each other in the wild and that is why we want to put them together. The owl-faced monkeys will go to a much larger building with an outdoor enclosure.”
