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A young Japanese macaque named Luka has escaped from the Highland Wildlife Park, located near Aviemore in the Cairngorms National Park. This incident has raised concerns since the park experienced a similar escape two years ago. Luka disappeared overnight, prompting the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) to initiate a search for the monkey. The society confirmed that they are actively looking for Luka but currently do not know how or when he managed to flee.
The previous escape involved another macaque called Honshu, who evaded capture for more than five days back in January 2024. Honshu’s departure appeared to be linked to a conflict with other male monkeys in the troop. After being spotted in a nearby garden, Honshu was eventually caught and relocated to Edinburgh Zoo to start anew. Following that escape, RZSS upgraded their fencing and revised management practices to prevent future incidents.
Darren McGarry, head of animal care at RZSS, explained that efforts to find Luka include using a variety of techniques such as thermal imaging drones. He highlighted the complex social dynamics of primate groups, noting that it is not uncommon for males to be forced out of their groups. McGarry advised the public not to approach Luka, emphasizing that although the monkey is not dangerous, anyone spotting him should report it immediately by calling the provided contact number. RZSS chief executive David Field expressed confidence that Luka is likely trying to return to his enclosure and assured the public that the team is doing everything possible to locate him.
Japanese macaques, also known as snow monkeys, grow to about the size of a medium-sized dog at adulthood. Honshu had been part of a troop of 37 macaques before his escape. The RZSS noted that disturbances within the group, especially during the breeding season when tensions run high, might lead to such breakaways. Luka’s disappearance serves as a reminder of the challenges involved in managing these complex animal groups in captivity
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