Bonobo Shatters Zoo Exhibit Glass After Interaction With Visitors

The incident at the Memphis Zoo's Primate Canyon Exhibit was captured on video.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A male bonobo named Mobali charged into the viewing window of the Memphis Zoo's Primate Canyon Exhibit and shattered the inner layer of safety glass after a group of teenage visitors interacted with the animal. The zoo staff is reminding guests that bonobos, like humans, can become stressed or upset when being taunted.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the importance of respecting the habitats and well-being of endangered animals in captivity. Zoos aim to provide a safe and enriching environment for both visitors and the animals, and this event raises questions about how to better manage interactions between guests and primates.

The details

The video shows Mobali, a male bonobo, charging into the viewing window after the group of teenage visitors from Missouri banged on their chests and interacted with the animal. The inner layer of safety glass was shattered, but the zoo said the bonobos were not harmed. The exhibit is now closed for several weeks while the glass is replaced.

  • The incident occurred on Thursday afternoon, March 4, 2026.
  • The exhibit is expected to remain closed for several weeks.

The players

Mobali

A male bonobo at the Memphis Zoo's Primate Canyon Exhibit.

Josiah Long

One of the teenage visitors from Missouri who was present during the incident.

Melissa Peterson

The associate primates curator at the Memphis Zoo.

Memphis Zoo

The zoo where the incident took place.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We banged on our chests a little bit, not really expecting anything. We see one of them start to approach us, and I was like, 'Oh my gosh, that thing is coming for us.'”

— Josiah Long, Teenage visitor (WMC/Gray News)

“It could be stress, frustration, anger, and it's just not appropriate because this is their home. We absolutely want to make sure that we're providing the most respect possible in their home.”

— Melissa Peterson, Associate primates curator, Memphis Zoo (WMC/Gray News)

What’s next

The zoo staff is reviewing safety protocols and guest education measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The takeaway

This event underscores the need for greater awareness and respect when interacting with endangered animals in captivity. Zoos must balance providing engaging experiences for visitors while also prioritizing the welfare and safety of the animals in their care.