ROYAL OAK, MI – After 20 years at the Detroit Zoo, a group of three gorilla “bachelors” is moving to a different zoo.
“This is not an easy goodbye — these brothers have built a special place in our hearts over the last 20 years,” the zoo said in an announcement via social media.
Half-brothers Chipua “Chip,” Pendeka “Pende” and Kongo-Mbeli “Kongo” will move together this summer to another zoo accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the zoo said. Relocating these “bachelors” was recommended by the AZA’s Gorilla Species Survival Plan (SSP).
“This move is in the best interest of their continued well-being,” the zoo said.
The zoo is throwing a going away party for the gorillas this weekend, July 1-2. The animal care staff will host habitat chats, share stories and give the boys special enrichment treats at the Great Apes of Harambee habitat at 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. both days.
Guests are also encouraged to bring broken, old or unwanted cellphones for the Gorillas on the Line campaign, which refurbishes and sells recycled, reusable devices to raise money for gorilla conservation initiatives.
After the brothers leave, the zoo plans to renovate the ape habitat in preparation for a new group of gorillas.
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