Visitors were evacuated and the zoo was closed when a blaze broke out and destroyed much of the roof covering its Monsoon Forest area on Saturday.

Orangutans, crocodiles, turtles and exotic birds were among the species living in the southeast Asian environment-style habitat.

In a statement on Sunday, Chester Zoo said it had been “one of the toughest days” in its history.

“Keepers were able to encourage all mammal species away from the fire and to safety – including the zoo’s group of critically endangered Sumatran orangutans, Sulawesi macaques, endangered silvery gibbons and birds such as rhinoceros hornbills,” it said.

“We are though, devastated to say that we were unable to save some of our insects, frogs, fish and small birds who were located near to the outbreak of the fire.

“It’s absolutely heart-breaking to lose any animal, especially when conservationists have worked so hard to breed these wonderful species.”

The zoo, which partially reopened on Sunday, said it had been inundated with messages of support.

It has launched a £50,000 fundraising campaign following the blaze.

“Following on from the fire in our Monsoon Forest habitat, we’re overwhelmed by the sheer number of people asking how they can support,” the zoo said.

“Thank you so much for all your kind messages, they mean so much at this difficult time.

“We remain committed to our mission to prevent extinction and for those who’re asking how they can help, we would welcome a donation to our continuing conservation work.”

A JustGiving fundraising page has already received more than £40,000 in donations – almost reaching their target within hours of setting up the fund.

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service declared a major incident after it was called to the zoo shortly before 11.30am on Saturday.

The cause of the fire is currently unknown.

One person was treated for smoke inhalation as a result of the fire, the North West Ambulance Service said.

David Clough, 50, who lives across the road from the zoo, said high winds fanned the flames in the roof of the building.

He added: “We were very worried for the people and animals that would have been in the building.

“Orangutans and gibbons are our nearest neighbours there, but there are many other animals, including free-flying birds.”

One visitor, who declined to be named, said they were in the monsoon enclosure before being “rushed out due to an electrical fire”.

“It spread very quickly,” the visitor said.

“The staff ensured all the members of the public were safe. Many staff (were) running towards the fire, (I’m) assuming to help with evacuating animals.”

Chester Zoo is home to 21,000 animals.

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