BAY LAKE, Fla. – Disney’s Animal Kingdom has introduced a new leader to its gorilla family.
Bakari, a 21-year-old male western lowland gorilla, is settling into his new home and role as silverback of the family troop at Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail, Disney officials said.
His arrival comes after the end of an era for the group. For nearly three decades, the troop was led by Gino, the longtime silverback at Disney’s Animal Kingdom since the park opened.
“Bringing Bakari here is bittersweet because it means we’ve said goodbye to Gino, who was our silverback for almost 30 years since the park’s opening,” Rachel, an animal care manager with Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment, said in a statement. “But it’s also incredibly exciting. Bakari is the future of this family troop, and we’re looking forward to watching him grow into that role and hopefully help welcome new generations of gorillas for years to come.”
Disney said animal care teams are using a step-by-step introduction process to help Bakari build relationships with the females in the troop.
Before arriving at Walt Disney World, Bakari lived in a bachelor group at another Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited zoo, according to Disney. Introductions begin with the gorillas seeing each other through a protected viewing area while caretakers closely monitor behavior. As comfort levels increase, the process gradually moves to closer interactions, including opportunities for touch, Disney said.
“This is all very new for Bakari,” Rachel said. “Our goal is to help him feel comfortable and confident at every stage. We take the process slowly because building those social relationships with the females is incredibly important.”
Disney said the move is supported by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan, which aims to maintain genetically diverse populations of western lowland gorillas in managed care.
“Pairing Bakari with our females can help strengthen the long-term future of the population,” Rachel said.
Caretakers are also learning Bakari’s personality as he adjusts, Disney said, describing him as calm and observant. One behavior already standing out: He often lounges while resting his chin on his hand, watching activity around him.
Guests may see Bakari along the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail as he continues to acclimate and begin interacting more with the troop, Disney said.
Western lowland gorillas are considered critically endangered, and Disney said its animal care teams’ work supports both the animals at the park and broader conservation efforts.