Rockhampton Zoo's baby chimpanzee is named!

Published on 09 April 2018

Rockhampton Zoo’s newest family member of the chimpanzee group has finally been named today with Leakey and Alon’s little girl named Capri.

More than 600 names were received by members of the public during a naming competition run last month with a panel shortlisting that down to a handful of names.

Individual smoothie containers were numbered and mounted to the wall of the enclosure, allowing Leakey to pick a container and thereby name her little girl herself.

Parks Committee Chair Councillor Cherie Rutherford said it was a very special moment.

“This little baby chimpanzee has been winning hearts across the country since she was born on February 12 and one of the most common questions has been ‘When is she going to get a name?’,” Cr Rutherford said.

“Capri is a beautiful name which reflects her birthplace here on the Tropic of Capricorn.

“There were many worthy entries which could’ve easily gone in as well and I want to thank everyone who made the effort to be part of this little chimpanzee’s life and give her a name.

“Capri isn’t even two months old yet and she’s already a star with her face seen on news programs around the country, in the paper, online and on billboards.

“It’s wonderful to have this milestone today and I hope the entire community joins us in celebrating this very special day for Rockhampton Zoo.”