Rockhampton Zoo announces third chimpanzee pregnancy in two years

Published on 10 October 2019

There must be something in the water at Rockhampton Zoo as it has today announced a third chimpanzee pregnancy in two years.  

Holly, 31, is due to give birth in February next year. She joins Samantha, who is expecting her first bub next month, and follows Leakey, mother to the adorable Capri who was born in February 2018.

Chair of Rockhampton Regional Council’s Parks and Recreation Committee, Councillor Cherie Rutherford, said everyone at the Zoo was absolutely delighted.

“We could not be more pleased to share this news with the community today.

“Ever since Capri was born last year the support and warm wishes from residents and visitors has been absolutely overwhelming.

“Watching her grow into the cheeky toddler we see today has been an absolute joy, and to know that we will be able to follow the journey of not one but two more baby chimpanzees in the coming months and years is so exciting.

“I can only imagine the fun and games that the siblings will get up to together!”

Councillor Rutherford said this would be Holly’s first baby.

“Like Leakey and Sam, this baby will be Holly’s first.

“All is going as expected in her pregnancy so far, and she will of course have the benefit of seeing Capri’s birth and development, and the same of Samantha’s baby, before it’s her turn to become a mum.

“Chimps are absolutely wonderful animals; however they are unfortunately also highly endangered.

“This baby will not only delight visitors to the Zoo, they will also eventually be very important for breeding programs dedicated to the survival of the species.”

Alon, the alpha male, is the father of all the baby chimps at Rockhampton Zoo.

Rockhampton Zoo is owned and operated by Rockhampton Regional Council. It is open daily from 8am until 4.30pm and is free to visit.

Head over to the Rockhampton Zoo Facebook page to find out more.