TheDallas Zoois reviewing its onsite security measures after a missing pair of tamarin monkeys wererecovered inside a closetat an abandoned home on Tuesday.
In a press release sent to PEOPLE, the zoo added that almost immediately after their examination, both monkeys, Bella and Finn, began eating and drinking.
While they will need to clear a quarantine period before being reintroduced to their zoo habitat, their disappearance, along with a string of other animals thathave gone missing in recent weeks, has caused the zoo to begin a review of its security system.
“Although our security program had worked in the past, it has become obvious that we need to make significant changes,” the Dallas Zoo said in the release. “Words cannot express the frustration our team is feeling. Even with all the additional security measures we have put in place during the past two weeks, our animals and staff continue to be the target of these criminal acts.”
The Dallas Zoo adds that video from surveillance cameras aided the Dallas Police Department ingenerating a tipthat led to the tamarin monkeys being recovered.
The zoo said it has added more cameras, additional security technology, additional fencing, increased security patrols, and increased overnight staffing to aid in the prevention of any new security breach.
Tony Gutierrez/AP/Shutterstock
“We have consulted with security experts and have developed new strategies for securing the 106-acre zoo,” according to the zoo’s press release. “Securing a zoo is a unique challenge that requires specific needs because of the environment; there is often extensive tree canopy, expansive habitats and behind-scenes-areas to monitor, and heavy traffic from guests, contractors, and staff.”
Before Bella and Finn’s disappearance, a4-year-old clouded leopard named Novawent missing on Jan. 13, prompting the zoo to close for the day.
On Jan. 22, the Dallas Zoo reported thatone of its endangered vulturesliving in the zoo’s Wilds of Africa habitat was found dead.
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On Tuesday, the zoo announceda $25,000 rewardfor information leading to the arrest and indictment of those responsible for these incidents. Members of the public are asked to call 214-670-7694 to share information.
source: people.com
