Keepers broke out the bubbles yesterday to celebrate Barbie’s 40th birthday down in the chimp enclosure.

The third oldest of DZG’s seven chimpanzees was treated to some birthday bubbles and banana – and both went down a treat. Senior Primate Keeper Jodie Dryden said:

“As it was Barbie’s special birthday we decided to get out the bubble machine and see what she made of it! She was a little unsure at first but warmed to the idea and even burst a few with her finger and her tongue!

“Barbie is a determined character and very good with her hands. When we put a paddling pool in the enclosure one time she nimbly used sticks to fish out treats.”

Barbie is mum to Binty and Banika, sister to Mandy and auntie to Mali, who are all in the zoo's all-girl family group.