Zoo In Seattle Investigating After Orangutan Bites Keeper Through Barrier

The Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle, Wash., said it is conducting a “thorough investigation” after an orangutan bit a staff member’s hand through a mesh barrier.

The zoo said the incident occurred Saturday during a routine training session, when an orangutan bit the animal keeper through a mesh barrier. The keeper sustained a “serious injury” to their hand and was transported to a hospital for treatment.

“Training encourages the animals to voluntarily participate in their own care by helping them become more comfortable with daily husbandry and medical procedures. Training sessions also foster strong bonds that build trust between the animals and their keepers, and it is always a voluntary and enriching part of their daily care,” Luis Neves, Senior Director of Animal Care at Woodland Park Zoo, said in a statement.

No other staff or guests were involved or injured, and the orangutan remained secured in the habitat throughout the incident. The zoo said staff practice “protected contact” with orangutans, meaning there is always a barrier such as fencing or mesh between the animals and staff.

A veterinarian who responded to the scene confirmed the orangutan was unharmed and behaving appropriately.

“The orangutan care team will continue to provide training and routine care for each orangutan to maintain normalcy and will closely monitor the animals,” Neves said.

The zoo said an investigation into how the incident occurred is underway, and animal care managers are evaluating the barriers to determine whether modifications are needed.

“We are very saddened our team member was injured and know this has been a very stressful and difficult experience for them and the rest of our Animal Care team. We are in contact with the animal keeper and will do all we can to support them as they heal,” said Alejandro Grajal, President and CEO at Woodland Park Zoo.

There are currently four adult orangutans in the zoo’s Trail of Vines habitat, which remains open to visitors.