New Gorilla Family Prepare to Move at Columbus Zoo

Posted By : The Animal Facts Editorial Team

Date: April 19, 2021 1:15 pm

Dotty the western lowland gorilla is a member of the new troop at Columbus Zoo

Photo Credit: Amanda Carberry/ Columbus Zoo and Aquairum

Keepers at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium have been busy bringing together a new troop of western lowland gorillas in recent weeks. The new family made up of male Oliver and females Nadami and Dotty will soon move to a new facility accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).

Two members of the animal care team, a member of the Facilities team and a staff veterinarian will follow the troop to their new home to ensure their safe arrival.

Their new home will be announced once the receiving zoo have welcomed them and can share this exciting announcement with their community.

The move of Oliver, Nadami and Dotty is a result of a recommendation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Species Survival Plan® (SSP). This program seeks to create the greatest possible genetic diversity and population sustainability within AZA zoos.

These moves also take in to account the strong bonds between these social primates. Oliver, Nadami and Dotty are doing well as a family unit. Both Nadami and Dotty have been recommended to breed once they arrive at their new home.

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Moving this troop to their new home will allow Columbus Zoo more room for managing the 14 gorillas which remain in their care. One advantage will be providing space to form a bachelor group made up of young males JJ, Kamoli and Sulaiman.

Zoos participating in the gorilla SSP are expected to house a bachelor group alongside their mixed sex group.

“We consider these animals to be members of our Zoo family, and while it’s certainly hard to say goodbye, we remain committed to our integral role in participating in collaborative programs working to protect the future of threatened and endangered species. We are confident that Oliver, Nadami and Dotty will continue to receive excellent care, and we look forward to receiving updates about them from our friends and colleagues at their new home,” said Interim Columbus Zoo and Aquarium President and CEO Jerry Borin.

Western lowland gorillas are listed as critically endangered in the wild. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium support gorilla conservation in the wild.