The Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) said on Monday that eight animals were found dead in the Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens.

It said officials found the dead monkeys on Sunday, including one De Brazza’s Monkey, one Common Squirrel Monkey, three Cotton-top Tamarins and three White-faced Sakis.

The LCSD said it's liaising with officials from the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, and autopsies and other tests are being carried out to determine the cause of death.

It said the mammals section of the facility will be closed from Monday for disinfection and cleaning works pending the results of the tests.

"We will also closely monitor the health conditions of other animals," it said in a statement.

"During this period, other facilities of the HKZBG will remain open."

A man and his granddaughter were visiting the gardens on Monday.

"I was a bit disappointed. Of course I think the closure was unfortunate. For us adults, the closure was not a big problem. But for children, they are more interested in the animals and they are more curious," he said.

"For me, I am reaching retirement age soon. I just take my granddaughter out to play when I am free."

Chhavi and her family came all the way from Australia just to find that the mammals section of the gardens was closed temporarily.

"[I] feel a bit disappointed obviously, and it just started from today," she said.

"We will probably see the birds and whatever we can."

Responding to the deaths, the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals said it is uncommon to have multiple animal fatalities within a short time-frame, and an investigation was needed to pinpoint the cause.

It hoped the results could provide clarity and insight into the incident.

Broadcast on:

14 Oct 2024