Chimpanzee born at Beekse Bergen, important for species conservation

A special event in Safaripark Beekse Bergen: a Western chimpanzee has given birth. An important event for the ape species, which is seriously threatened in the wild. The sex of the cub is not yet known.

The birth was not a total surprise to the animal caretakers, as they had known about the pregnancy for some time. It is the first time the nine-year-old mother has given birth to a young. It is not certain who the father is, as the group includes more fertile males. DNA research will have to reveal this later.

According to zookeeper Megan Rijndorp, everything is going well: "The cub is lying well on its mother's chest. She is very protective, which is a good sign. The rest of the group is curious, but staying at an appropriate distance." The cub was born in the night enclosure, but the chimpanzees also have the option of nesting in the indoor enclosure.

Endangered species

The birth of this chimpanzee is special for the park, as it is not common. In addition, it is of great importance to the species. Rijndorp: "The European Management Program (EEP) ensures that a genetically healthy reserve population of chimpanzees remains in zoos. This is because chimpanzees are seriously threatened in the wild. Their habitat in Africa's forests is being destroyed by logging, agriculture and mining. In addition, the animals are captured to keep as pets or illegally hunted to then be eaten as bushmeat."

Through Stichting Wildlife, Safaripark Beekse Bergen supports the Jane Goodall Institute, which works worldwide for the welfare and conservation of great apes. This institute provides assistance to orphaned chimpanzees, trains rangers and works with local communities on sustainable agriculture and education.