Visitors warned of distressing sight at North Wales zoo

A PROMINENT zoo in Wales has issued a statement to visitors following the tragic death of a baby chimpanzee.

- By LOIS MCCARTHY and ANDREW FORGRAVE

One of the chimpanzees at the Welsh Mountain Zoo

Management at Welsh Mountain Zoo have apologised to families intending to visit the Colwyn Bay site during this difficult time.

Established in 1963, the Welsh Mountain Zoo is the country's oldest and in 2008 was recognised as the National Zoo of Wales.

The facility houses a remarkable array of species, including threatened snow leopards, red pandas, gibbons, and California sea lions.

Amongst the animals is Mellony, a chimpanzee mother who has been profoundly impacted after losing her newborn baby. She continues to cradle the deceased infant - a natural response frequently witnessed in chimpanzees.