A mischievous macaque caused a fair amount of monkey business when he escaped from his enclosure at Chester Zoo last Friday.
Mr Wilks, a Sulawesi macaque, was spotted by an eagle-eyed visitor who notified staff at the zoo, which was partially closed while the zoo’s veterinary team attempted to lure him home.
Perhaps enjoying his adventure a little too much, the pesky primate had to be darted when he refused to co-operate, and was safely returned to his enclosure.
The zoo’s curator of mammals, Tim Rowlands, said: “Mr Wilks was spotted by a visitor and our teams were quickly on hand. He was being a bit of a rascal about returning but he’s now safely back.
“We ensured visitors were kept out of the rain and offered them free refreshments. We would like to thank them for their help and co-operation.”
A spokesperson for Chester Zoo, which is home to 23 Sulawesi macaques, said: “Some of the pathways in the zoo and one animal house were closed for a spell. Every effort was made to encourage Mr Wilks back to his enclosure under his own steam. However, he was reluctant to do so and was eventually darted by the veterinary team.”
