Happy first Mother’s Day Leakey

Published on 11 May 2018

Rockhampton Zoo is getting ready to celebrate a very special event this Sunday, with new mum Leakey set to have her first Mother's Day. 

Since being born on February 12, Rockhampton Zoo’s baby chimp Capri has hit a number of milestones and Zoo staff are ecstatic with her progress.

Parks Committee Chair Councillor Cherie Rutherford said it was pleasing to see the Zoo’s newest family member doing so well.

“Capri is stealing the hearts of everyone who sees her and it’s been wonderful to watch her develop as she hits the three-month mark tomorrow,” Cr Rutherford said.

“Our keepers can see Capri has six teeth now, so you’ll often see her with a finger in her mouth as she goes through teething like all new babies.

“What’s also really exciting is that she’s starting to make noises to greet the other chimps, and hoots along with the others when they do, so I’m sure she’ll be talking to the rest of the troop properly in no time.

“She’s not quite walking yet but mum Leakey is holding her up and getting her to try and stand on her own, so it’s only a matter of time before it happens.

“Thousands of people have now headed through the gates at the Zoo to see little Capri and if you’re looking for something a bit different to do this Sunday, why not head out there and help Leakey enjoy her first Mother’s Day?” Cr Rutherford said.

Rockhampton Zoo is free, and open daily from 8am to 4.30pm. There is a Zoo Keeper Talk and feeding time for the chimpanzees at 3pm each day.

You can see footage of Capri on Rockhampton Zoo's Facebook page.