San antonio, TX – The San Antonio Zoo welcomed three gorillas – Andi, Merry, and Anaka – from Zoo Atlanta today, marking the return of gorillas to the zoo after a 35-year absence. the arrival precedes the December 13th opening of the highly anticipated Congo Falls exhibit.
The gorillas’ arrival is part of the Gorilla Species Survival Plan (SSP), a collaborative effort among zoos to ensure the health and sustainability of the gorilla population.Congo Falls will span two acres and eventually house a troop of seven gorillas, offering guests immersive viewing opportunities across three distinct habitats.
“We are honored to partner with Zoo Atlanta, an institution that shares our deep commitment to caring for and protecting gorillas,” said Tim Morrow, president & CEO of San Antonio Zoo. “Welcoming Andi,Merry,and Anaka is incredibly special for our team and community. Each one brings her own personality and hopes for gorilla conservation.”
The three gorillas were born at Zoo Atlanta and will join a new troop at Congo Falls. “Anaka, Andi, and Merry have grown up here with us, so while we will miss them in Atlanta, we are very excited for their new opportunity…This is a fantastic and impactful example of a multi-organizational collaboration within the Gorilla Species Survival Plan,” stated Gina Ferrie, PhD, vice president of Collections and Conservation at Zoo atlanta.
Congo Falls is scheduled to open to the public at 10 a.m. on December 13th.
