Nine Monkeys Found Dead at Hong Kong Zoo

Hong Kong's oldest zoo, the Zoological and Botanical Gardens, is investigating the sudden deaths of nine monkeys within two days, including critically endangered species like the cotton-top tamarins. Authorities have sealed off and disinfected the mammals section of the zoo, and necropsies along with toxicological tests are underway to determine the cause of death. Government officials held an urgent interdepartmental meeting, highlighting the seriousness of the incident, and all 80 other animals seem to be in normal condition. The zoo remains partially closed to the public as the investigation continues, raising concerns about potential zoonotic diseases like monkeypox. Experts will continue to monitor another De Brazza's monkey displaying unusual behavior, while PETA has expressed concern over the incident's implications for human health. The Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens, a historic urban park, houses a variety of species, including 93 mammals, 158 birds, and 21 reptiles.