Three Congo gorillas will soon be calling the San Antonio Zoo their permanent home.
SAN ANTONIO — The San Antonio Zoo has welcomed three male western lowland gorillas from the Dallas Zoo, marking the species’ return to the city for the first time in 35 years. The gorillas — Shana, B’wenzi and Juba, all age 23 — arrived earlier this week and will form a bachelor troop in Congo Falls, the zoo’s new two-acre gorilla habitat set to open Dec. 13 at 10 a.m.
Their transfer is part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan, a program that supports genetically healthy, sustainable populations of endangered species in accredited zoos. Western lowland gorillas are listed as critically endangered, facing threats including habitat loss, poaching and disease.
The zoo says the trio’s arrival represents a major milestone in its 111-year history and strengthens its long-term commitment to gorilla conservation.
“Shana, B’wenzi and Juba are incredible, and we are honored to welcome them to their new home in Congo Falls,” Tim Morrow, president and CEO of the San Antonio Zoo, said in a statement. “Their presence here strengthens global gorilla conservation efforts and allows us to inspire guests in powerful new ways.”
Congo Falls will offer the bachelor troop access to three interconnected habitats featuring a 30-foot waterfall, water-play zones, overhead pathways, elevated viewpoints and 360-degree viewing opportunities for both guests and gorillas.
Although Congo Falls will not officially open until Dec. 13, zoo visitors may get a sneak peek at any of the habitat’s seven gorillas from select viewing areas as the animals adjust to their new environment.
More information about Congo Falls is available at sazoo.org/congo-falls.