Jersey Zoo welcomes new gorilla after 15 years in boost for breeding programme

Jersey Zoo has welcomed its first new gorilla in 15 years following the opening of its newly built gorilla house, marking a significant moment for the island’s wildlife conservation efforts.

The newcomer, Afia, a 10-year-old female western lowland gorilla, arrived from Bristol Zoo Project, where she was born in 2016.

Her birth attracted attention at the time as she was delivered by caesarean section and is also the granddaughter of Snowflake, the world’s only known white gorilla.

Mark Habben, director of zoo operations at Jersey Zoo, described Afia’s journey as “extraordinary from the very beginning” and said her transfer was an important step in maintaining a healthy future for the endangered species.

Afia is the first gorilla to join the Jersey troop since 2011 and will initially spend time in a dedicated off-show area as she adjusts to her new surroundings. She will eventually be introduced to the existing group, which includes Badongo, Bahasha, Hlala Kahilli and Amari.

The zoo said Afia will be gradually introduced to the troop with support from keepers and specialists from Bristol Zoo Project, who travelled with her to Jersey to assist in her transition.

The new gorilla habitat is significantly larger than the previous enclosure and has been designed to offer the animals greater choice, space and enrichment opportunities.

Habben said the team was hopeful Afia would settle in well and eventually go on to have offspring at the zoo.

“The habitat has been designed to give the troop as much choice and freedom as possible,” he said. “We’re looking forward to watching Afia explore her new home and become part of the group.”

Sarah Gedman, curator at Bristol Zoo Project, said Afia had overcome early challenges in life and had developed into a key part of the species’ breeding programme.

“As Afia has reached adulthood, we’ve always known the time would come for her to move on and hopefully start a family of her own,” she said.

“For me personally, it feels like a real full circle moment. I was there when Afia was born almost 10 years ago, and now I’ve travelled to Jersey and am helping her settle into her new home.”