Missing link problem for chimps solved

Chimpanzees at a wildlife park saw their horizons expand yesterday with the opening of a new bridge linking different parts of their enclosure.

By The Newsroom

Published 3rd Apr 2010, 01:39 BST

Updated 3rd Apr 2010, 01:39 BST

The 80,000 six-tonne steel structure spans 40 metres of water to link the chimp house on the mainland with their island.

It is thought the bridge at Blair Drummond Safari Park, near Stirling, is the first in the world to take chimps across water.

Bananas and tangerines were laid on the walkway to tempt the three animals over, and they were rewarded with a chocolate egg when they reached the other side.

Previously, the chimpanzees spent the summer roaming free on the island, returning to the chimp house on the mainland in the winter. From now on they will spend every day on the island when weather permits, returning to the chimp house at night when it is dinner time.

Head keeper for chimpanzees Alasdair Gillies said this would make it easier for staff to monitor the animals and keep an eye on their health.