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Ape escape caught on tape!
Photo copyright: Splash
Five chimps escape from zoo enclosure

Footage of the moment five chimpanzees broke out of their enclosure using a ladder they had fashioned together out of tree branches has emerged.

The incident happened at Experience Zoo, in Hanover, Germany and caught on camera by visitor Kai Hauser. The primates mingled with the 2,500 tourists, getting a taste of life on the other side of the fence.

Mr Hauser was walking with his girlfriend and her sister’s family towards the enclosure area called ‘Gorilla Hills’ when they heard loud screaming, but of the human variety.

He said: “Nobody saw anything, only the loud screaming from the chimps that came through the bushes, so it was frightening and everyone on the way stopped walking and was looking around with open mouths.”

He continued: “'Then we heard a woman behind the bushes shouting, ‘Oh no! Stop, come back’. A few seconds later one chimp came around the corner - he was very relaxed and walked up to a man and gave him a hug. The chimp looked like he wanted to kiss him... but then he opened his mouth revealing his big teeth and we feared he could bite his chin off.” Much to everyone's relief the chimp let go of the man and walked off, Mr Hauser said.

Four of the five chimps - seven in total live in the enclosure - tasted freedom and decided they didn’t like it much and wandered back to the enclosure on their own.

An enquiry is now underway to determine what happened. The zoo could be faced with a huge bill for the fleet of police, ambulances and fire engines that raced to the scene.

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RCVS announces 1CPD app update

News Story 1
 The RCVS has announced a new version of its 1CPD mobile app, with enhanced features for veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses to record their continuing professional development.

The mobile app includes a new 'what would you like to do?' shortcut for frequent tasks, a notification badge, and the ability to scan a QR code from the home screen to easily record an activity.

Users will be prompted to update the app from the App Store or Google Play the next time they log in. For more information, visit RCVS.org.uk 

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Nominations open for RCVS and VN Council elections

The nomination period for the 2026 RCVS Council and VN Council elections is now open, with three veterinary surgeon seats and two veterinary nurse seats available.

Prospective candidates can download an information pack and nomination form from the RCVS website. Individuals can nominate themselves for the elections, with the results to be announced in the spring.

Clare Paget, the recently appointed RCVS Registrar and elections returning officer, said: "If you want to play your part in influencing and moulding how the professions are regulated, and making key decisions on matters of great importance to your peers, the public and animal health and welfare, please consider standing for RCVS Council or VN Council next year."

Nominations close at 5pm on Saturday, 31 January 2026.