Beloved Zoo Reveals Name of Newest Arrival
The beloved Colchester Zoo has confirmed a January birth in its chimpanzee group. Primate keeper Lizzy announced the news on Facebook. The zoo later revealed the chosen name after public suggestions.
Naming and public involvement
Visitors and supporters were invited to suggest names for the newest arrival. The animal care team read the entries and shortlisted options. They revealed the name Keira after the selection process.
Kora, the baby’s mother, was given the deciding vote. Keepers presented banners with the shortlisted names. Kora indicated her choice by selecting the banner labelled Keira.
Family background and recent transfers
Kora was born at the zoo in November 1999. This birth is her first offspring. It is also the first chimpanzee birth at the zoo since Talia in March 2009.
Napoleon joined the group from Bioparc Fuengirola, Spain. He arrived on April 2, 2025 as part of a breeding programme. The newborn now holds the position as the youngest member of the zoo’s chimpanzee population.
Visitors are encouraged to stop by the Chimpanzee Lookout. Staff said Keira can be seen there during public opening times.
Conservation context
Chimpanzees are listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List. They face multiple threats in the wild.
- Habitat loss driven by deforestation.
- Hunting for bushmeat.
Filmogaz.com reached out to the zoo for further comment. Staff welcomed the community’s support for the new family member.
