A male Japanese macaque named Luka has returned to the Highland Wildlife Park near Aviemore, ending a search that began after he escaped from his enclosure overnight. The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) confirmed the animal came back “of his own accord” on Monday evening.
Safe Return Confirmed
“The search has concluded successfully and Luka is safely back in our care,” said Darren McGarry, head of animal care at RZSS. “He will now be looked over by our keepers and veterinary team before being carefully reintroduced to his group.”
Mr McGarry added: “We want to thank everyone who has helped during the search, particularly those who supported our teams. Luka arrived home on his own accord and we are delighted to have him safely back at the park.”
Search Efforts
Earlier in the day, staff used a variety of techniques to locate the macaque, including a thermal imaging drone. Mr McGarry had previously noted that “primate group dynamics can be very complex and males being forced out of a group is not uncommon.” He also advised the public not to approach the animal and to report sightings to 0776 9165117.
Previous Escape
This incident follows a similar escape in January 2024, when another Japanese macaque, Honshu, spent five days roaming the Highlands before being spotted at a bird feeder in a local garden. Honshu was captured and later moved to Edinburgh Zoo.
Japanese macaques are also known as snow monkeys.
