A Historic Shift: Miami Gorillas Shango and Barney Move to Chicago
In an unprecedented turn of events, Zoo Miami is set to bid farewell to its beloved gorillas, Shango and Barney, marking the first time in over 40 years that the zoo will be without these iconic residents. This move comes as Zoo Miami prepares to renovate its great ape habitat, adhering to updated regulations while also aiming to enhance gorilla conservation efforts.
Shango, the 36-year-old, 448-pound silverback, and his younger brother Barney, aged 31 and weighing 415 pounds, have long been favored attractions at Zoo Miami. Born at the San Francisco Zoo, these gorillas have made Miami their home since 2017 when they arrived from Sedgwick County Zoo in Kansas. Their upcoming transfer to Brookfield Zoo in Chicago is not just a relocation; it represents a significant shift in gorilla representation in captivity.
The move to Chicago will make Shango and Barney the first-ever bachelor troop displayed in Brookfield’s expansive James and Elizabeth Bramsen Tropical Forest exhibit. According to Zoo Miami's Ron Magill, bachelor troops are natural social groups consisting of younger males or adult males who have not yet formed family units, playing a crucial role in the social development and well-being of gorillas.
This relocation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by western lowland gorillas, a species that remains critically endangered due to poaching, habitat destruction, and disease. The brothers' impending move serves as a reminder of the pressing need for conservation efforts geared towards these magnificent creatures.
"Come see the gorillas before their departure," urged Magill, emphasizing the importance of educating younger generations about these great apes. During their recent veterinary exams, Shango and Barney received comprehensive check-ups, including blood work and X-rays, confirming they are in good health and ready for their journey. This level of care is indicative of the dedication that both Zoo Miami and Brookfield Zoo have towards the health of their animals.
While the loss of Shango and Barney will undeniably be felt by Miami residents and visitors, it opens up new opportunities for the improved management of gorilla species in captivity and the education surrounding them. As Zoo Miami prepares for this new chapter, we look toward the future, questioning how their absence might pave the way for an enhanced great ape habitat and stronger conservation narratives.
Shango and Barney’s departure marks the end of an era, but also the beginning of an exciting new journey in Chicago. How do you feel about this significant change in the gorilla community? We invite our readers to share their thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
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