Eight monkeys found dead at Hong Kong zoo, gov’t says

HONG KONG — Hong Kong authorities are carrying out tests to find out what killed eight monkeys, which were found dead in the city's oldest zoo on Sunday, the government said on Monday.

The animals, a De Brazza’s monkey, one common squirrel monkey, three cotton-top tamarins and three white-faced sakis, were found dead at the city's Zoological and Botanical Gardens (HKZBG) on Sunday, Hong Kong's Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) said in a statement.

While awaiting test results, the mammals section of the zoo will be shut from Monday for disinfection and cleaning.

"We will also closely monitor the health conditions of other animals. During this period, other facilities of the HKZBG will remain open," the statement said.

The HKZBG is the oldest park in the territory. Built in 1860, it houses around 158 birds, 93 mammals and 21 reptiles in about 40 enclosures.

The incident raises concerns about the potential outbreak of zoonotic diseases such as monkeypox, which can jump from animals to humans, Jason Baker, a senior vice president at animal rights group PETA Asia, said in a statement.

"Monkeys in captivity are often exposed to pathogens that can be transmitted to humans, including tuberculosis, Chagas disease, cholera, and MRSA," said Baker.

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) called on the HKZBG to end animal captivity immediately and transition to a botanical garden, the statement said. — Reuters