Most of animals at Tbilisi Zoo are not particularly fond of rain

New Year celebrations also reached the rhesus macaque enclosure at Tbilisi Zoo. Staff arranged a festive “table” for the macaques прямо on the ropes inside their enclosure. Finding treats this way proved both engaging and entertaining for the animals.

Life at Tbilisi Zoo: full video

Food suspended on ropes serves as both a game and a form of physical and mental training for the macaques. Such activities help them maintain natural behaviour.

Rhesus macaques originate from South-East Asia and live in troops. They prefer life in trees, although they also feel comfortable on the ground. These macaques are strong swimmers and capable divers.

Tbilisi Zoo‘s history spans nearly a century. It was founded on 10 February 1927 on the basis of the Caucasian Society for the Acclimatisation of Animals, which had been keeping wild animals since the early 20th century, though without official zoo status.

The zoo was originally built on 70 hectares in the Vere River gorge. Over the years, the expansion of the capital — and later the devastating flood of 13 June 2015 — significantly reduced the territory of the old zoo. Today, it covers five hectares and is home to around 1,500 animals, each with its own story.

In this video series, we will introduce you to the residents of Tbilisi Zoo. We will show how their day unfolds, how they interact with other animals and people, and how their behaviour changes depending on the weather and the season. Get ready to hear many fascinating stories.

Rhesus macaques at Tbilisi Zoo