A Chinese zoo has captured global attention after implementing an unusual rule to protect one of its youngest residents from the digital age’s influence. Shanghai Wildlife Park recently banned visitors from showing mobile phone videos to Ding Ding, a two-year-old chimpanzee who has become an internet celebrity for his remarkably human-like behaviors.
The adorable primate has charmed millions across social media platforms with his endearing antics. Viral footage shows Ding Ding sitting cross-legged while sipping milk, shyly embracing his caretakers, and delicately picking lotus petals to eat. However, it was his fascination with watching videos through his enclosure’s glass that prompted zoo officials to take action.
In September, the park posted an official notice outside Ding Ding’s habitat, complete with a sketch of the chimp and a crossed-out phone symbol. The warning explicitly prohibits visitors from displaying their mobile screens to the young animal, citing serious concerns about potential vision damage and psychological stress.
“If a chimpanzee cannot see clearly and cannot communicate with humans, it may become anxious, leading to health problems,” a zoo worker explained. The staff member emphasized that unlike humans, Ding Ding “cannot wear glasses” to correct any vision problems that might develop.
The ban emerged after numerous videos circulated on Douyin, China’s equivalent of TikTok, showing visitors pressing their phones against the glass while Ding Ding watched with apparent interest. One particularly popular clip featured a woman playing music videos while the chimp observed intently, occasionally scratching his face in what appeared to be deep concentration. Visitors reported that the young primate seemed especially attracted to comedy clips and short dramatic content.
The zoo’s decision has generated widespread discussion across Chinese social media, with reactions ranging from supportive to humorous. Many users praised the facility’s proactive approach to animal welfare. “Please respect the animals’ natural way of life,” one commenter urged. Others found humor in the situation, with one user joking, “My son is just as addicted to phone videos as Ding Ding, maybe the zoo should take him too.”
While the park hasn’t established specific penalties for visitors who ignore the rule, staff members continue to encourage compliance with the new policy.