Bristol Zoo has issued a public statement after footage of its gorillas, shared by urban explorers who trespassed on the closed zoo grounds, went viral online. The videos sparked public concern, with claims that the animals appeared to be “banging on windows” and were living in poor conditions. The zoo has firmly refuted these claims, stating that the viral posts are based on “misinformation” and that the real source of distress for the gorillas is the unauthorized break-ins themselves.
The Bristol Zoo Gardens site in Clifton officially closed to the public in 2022, with most animals gradually relocated to the new Bristol Zoo Project. However, a troop of gorillas has remained at the old site while their new, expansive enclosure—reportedly over four times larger and modeled on African forests—is completed. The zoo has stated the move is imminent, expected to happen in the next few months.
In response to the viral footage, a zoo spokesperson explained that the gorillas are far from isolated or abandoned. “As well as their team of keepers, the gorillas see vets, other zoo staff, students, researchers and zoo supporters throughout each week,” they said. The zoo emphasized that its heightened security has prevented trespassers from getting near the animals, but the act of breaking in triggers intruder alarms, which has a significant negative impact.
The main issue, according to the zoo, is the alarm system. Each break-in causes the alarms to sound, which “distresses the gorilla troop.” This disruption often leads the animals to miss sleep, leaving them “groggy and lethargic” and interfering with training routines designed to prepare them for their upcoming move. The zoo accused social media influencers of sharing misleading content to gain followers, encouraging further break-ins.
Despite the zoo’s assurances, the situation has drawn criticism from wildlife charity Born Free. In a report, the charity criticized the decision to keep the gorillas at the closed site for such a long period, noting that the repeated disturbances and loud alarms have had “‘really distressing’ impacts on the gorillas.” The incident highlights the tension between public curiosity, animal welfare, and the logistical challenges of large-scale zoo relocations.
