Dudley Zoo calls for spare bedding to entertain animals

The zoo has requested the bedding for its four Bornean oragnutans and seven female chimps who have been known to make costumes and play games with the sheets, duvet covers, pillow cases and towels.

Calls for donations come as stocks have started to run desperately low at the Black Country attraction.

Head of Upper Primates, Pat Stevens, said: “Our great apes love making up games and wrapping themselves in sheets and whatever else they can get their hands on.

“Our visitors are always generous when we ask them to donate surplus items to the zoo and our stores are nearly empty.

"We are hoping they can help replenish supplies for our orangutans and chimps who get a lot of enrichment and enjoyment from playing with the sheets.

“We usually have to throw the sheets or towels away after a day’s play, so we do get through a huge amount and appreciate any help people can give us."

Any donations of clean sheets, pillow cases, towels and duvet covers, excluding duvets or dressing gowns, can be handed to the zoo's customer services team in the Safari Shop.

For more information or to discuss donating contact the venue on: 01384 215313