In a poignant display of grief, a chimpanzee named Natalia at Bioparc Valencia in Spain has been observed carrying around her deceased infant for several months. The distressing sight has left visitors at the zoo deeply moved by the ape's sorrow.

According to Miguel Casares, the director general of the zoo, Natalia gave birth to her baby about three months ago, but tragically, the infant passed away shortly after. Since then, Natalia has refused to let go of her child's lifeless body, a behavior commonly seen among chimpanzees in both zoo and wild settings.

The presence of the dead baby initially shocks onlookers, but once zoo officials explain the situation and the need for close monitoring, visitors come to understand Natalia's mourning process. Casares emphasized the importance of respecting the ape's grief and ensuring her well-being during this difficult time.

This isn't the first time Natalia has experienced such heartbreaking loss. In 2018, she also lost a baby. With her previous experience and the emotional connection chimpanzees share with their offspring, it is no surprise that Natalia has clung to her baby's body, unwilling to let go.

Chimpanzees, who share about 98% of their genes with humans, grieve in ways that are strikingly familiar to us. A 2010 study revealed that these primates possess a highly developed awareness of death, with chimpanzee mothers observed carrying and grooming their deceased infants for up to 70 days.

These heartrending scenes serve as a reminder of the vulnerability of chimpanzees, classified as an "endangered" species by the World Wildlife Foundation. With a population estimated between 170,000 and 300,000 individuals, their existence is threatened by factors such as poaching, habitat loss, and the illegal trade of chimpanzee infants.

As Natalia continues her grieving process, zoo officials will maintain a close watch on her, providing the support and care she needs. The display of emotions in chimpanzees highlights the importance of conservation efforts to protect these magnificent creatures and preserve their dwindling population for future generations.