A Japanese macaque named Luka has escaped from the Highland Wildlife Park in the Cairngorms, prompting an ongoing search effort. Officials from the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) stated they are unsure how or when the macaque left its enclosure.
Darren McGarry, head of animal care, confirmed that a thermal imaging drone is among the techniques being used to find Luka in the surrounding area. "Primate group dynamics can be very complex and males being forced out of a group is not uncommon," McGarry said. RZSS has advised the public not to approach the animal, despite it not being dangerous, and to report any sightings to a dedicated phone line.
David Field, chief executive of RZSS, indicated that Luka is likely attempting to return to his enclosure and that the park is "doing everything we can to find him."
This incident follows a similar escape in January 2024, when a monkey was at large for more than five days. Fencing and management protocols were reportedly improved after the previous event involving a macaque named Honchu.