BUFFALO, N.Y. — The Buffalo Zoo isn't monkeying around when it comes to welcoming new animal friends.
In a social media post made on Friday, the zoo shared that they have many new animals joining the Buffalo family.
The zoo will be welcoming a silver back gorilla, a troop of patas monkeys, and more.
The silver back gorilla named Babatunde, is 18-years-old. According to the zoo he "signifies a new chapter for the Buffalo Zoo's gorilla family. His presence will introduce fresh genetics and strong leadership to the group, fostering a healthy and vibrant troop dynamic."
Coming from the Bronx Zoo, Babatunde will be in quarantine for 30-days while getting used to his new home in Buffalo. The zoo will share when he is ready to meet visitors in the coming weeks.
“We’re excited to welcome Babatunde as part of the Species Survival Plan’s ongoing efforts to protect and conserve gorillas,” said Buffalo Zoo President and CEO, Lisa Smith. His arrival is not only important for the Buffalo Zoo but for the future of gorillas across the country. The SSP ensures that each animal is placed where they will be healthiest and happiest, while also contributing to broader conservation goals.”
The patas monkey group will be the Buffalo Zoo's first group since 1973. They will be housed in the zoos vanishing animals exhibit. The troop of monkey's are known for their high speed, and energy.
Along with the primates, the zoo is also welcoming the following animals:
- 3 new addax antelope
- 3 scarlet ibis
- 1 roseate spoonbill, a wading bird
- 13 Puerto Rican crested toads
- 2 diving ducks
- 3 cheviot sheep
Along with all of the new additions, the zoo sadly has some departures as well. A female gorilla, Nyah, has gone to the Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago, and a rhinoceros, Mohan, has gone to an AZA-accredited home.
“We’re thrilled to welcome so many new additions to our Buffalo Zoo family,” continued Smith, who also serves as the head of the AZA’s Black Rhino Species Survival Plan. “While we’re sad to see Nyah and Mohan go, we understand that the moves are in the best interest of the species as a whole. We’re honored to collaborate with our partner zoos and the AZA to be part of these important conservations efforts.”
To learn more visit buffalozoo.org/buffalo-zoo
