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Keepers search for escaped macaque in Scotland
The Japanese macaque, also known as a snow monkey, was one of a troop of 37 at Highland Wildlife Park.
The Japanese macaque escaped its enclosure on 28 January.

Keepers from the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) are searching for a Japanese macaque, following its escape from Highland Wildlife Park.

The wildlife park discovered the monkey had escaped from its enclosure on 28 January, after a local reported a sighting in the village of Kincraig.

RZSS’ keepers were soon dispatched to the village, where they have been patrolling the area for sightings of the macaque. They have also called on a thermal image drone contractor to aid in the search.

The macaque is not considered to be dangerous to humans and pets. Keepers have asked locals to bring food sources such as bird feeders and food waste bins inside, to encourage the monkey to return to the wildlife park for food.

The Japanese macaque, also known as a snow monkey, was one of a troop of 37 at Highland Wildlife Park.

It is believed to have fled the park in reaction to a fight breaking out in the macaque enclosure. Macaques are currently in their breeding season, which can cause tensions to run high as they fight over breeding rights.

The keepers suspect that the adrenaline will have pushed this macaque to flee and pass the enclosure’s perimeter fence.

Speaking today, Highland Wildlife Park living collections operations manager Keith Gilchrist said: “Throughout the day our expert team of animal keepers will be patrolling the local area using a variety of techniques to try and coax him in, as well as using our thermal image drone contractor to aid with the search. Cairngorms Mountain Rescue has also kindly offered to support with their thermal imaging drone.

“As with yesterday, we’re asking locals to please bring any obvious potential food sources like bird feeders or food waste inside, as we’re hopeful that the monkey will return to the park if he can’t find food elsewhere.”

RZSS has asked that the public do not approach the macaque, but contact them on 07933 928377 or comms@rzss.org.uk with any information.

Image © Shutterstock

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Vetlife nominated for campaign award

News Story 1
 Vetlife has been shortlisted for the Association of Charity Organisations (ACO) Campaign of the Year Award 2024.

The nomination recognises its campaigning to raise awareness of neurodiversity within the profession and produce resources for individuals and workplaces. Vetlife's campaign has included talks, lived experience blogs, and an awareness video.

Kirstie Pickles, Vetlife trustee and project lead, said: "I am thrilled and delighted that the Vetlife neurodiversity awareness campaign has been shortlisted for the ACO Campaign of the Year Award 2024"

The winner will be announced 12 September 2024. 

Click here for more...
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Northern Ireland chief vet warns of bluetongue risk

Following the detection of bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) in England, Northern Ireland's chief veterinary officer has urged farmers to remain vigilant and source animals responsibly.

Brian Dooher said: "This confirmation in England is a stark reminder of the threat bluetongue presents to Northern Ireland.Whilst this finding in Norfolk is disappointing it is not unexpected giving the rising level of disease across several countries in Europe. Bluetongue does not affect human health or food safety, however an incursion to Northern Ireland would have a significant impact on livestock and the rural economy.

"I would like to remind all farmers of the importance of sourcing animals responsibly and ask that they maintain vigilance for signs of the disease reporting any suspicions to DAERA immediately."

Suspected cases of BTV-3 in Northern Ireland should be reported to the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or by contacting the local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.