Say “Hello” to MOsi!

 

 

Have you heard the comMOtion? We’re going ape over the arrival of 19-year-old Mosi to Myombe Reserve!

 

Last month, Mosi joined us from Lincoln Park Zoo, a fellow member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA)! AZA-accredited facilities like Busch Gardens and Lincoln Park Zoo often work hand-in-hand with Species Survival Plan (SSP) programs, which play matchmaker for different species to ensure genetic diversity and support conservation for endangered animals.

 

In late summer, Lincoln Park Zoo, Busch Gardens, and the Western Lowland Gorilla SSP began carefully planning the 425-pound silverback’s MOve from Chicago to Tampa.

 

A Familiar Face

 

To make sure Mosi would see a friendly face upon arrival, Gillian Mescher-Rodriguez, who has been part of the Myombe Team at Busch Gardens for more than two years, headed north to Lincoln Park Zoo to work with the team members who knew Mosi best.

 

Alongside Lincoln Park Zoo’s care team, Gillian got to know Mosi’s personality and preferences—spending time with him, asking his keepers questions about what would make him feel MOst at home, and learning about some of his favorite things. Visiting an animal in a space where they’re already comfortable provides valuable insight and helps their new care team appropriately accomMOdate their needs once they arrive.

 

“I was able to see the daily function of the great ape team at Lincoln Park Zoo! I participated in Mosi’s daily care, training sessions, and his crate training in preparation for his travel. I helped with prepping and distributing enrichment, which gave me some new ideas for our apes,” Gillian said. “I learned so much about Mosi! His favorite enrichment food is peanut butter, which was great information so we could have some stocked for his arrival!”

 

From the Windy City to the Sunshine State

 

After several weeks of careful planning, on the night of October 15th, the MOmentous journey to Busch Gardens began! Mosi and his team hit the road from Chicago to Indianapolis, then they traveled to Tampa via plane. During the flight, he was accompanied by one of Busch Gardens’ veterinarians and one of Lincoln Park Zoo’s great ape team members so they could MOnitor his comfortability.

 

Mosi and his travel team arrived at Busch Gardens the MOrning of October 16th! After unloading his crate and gently opening the door, Mosi wandered outside within just a couple minutes. Of course, Gillian and the rest of the Myombe Team were there waiting for him!

 

One of the first signs we look for as an animal adjusts to a new environment is their eagerness to eat, explore, and interact with their trainers. Mosi deMOnstrated his comfort right away by finding Gillian and immediately munching on lettuce, bananas, and—of course—peanut butter!

 

“It was rewarding to know that we had built a relationship during my time at Lincoln Park Zoo that could translate here and help him transition to our care,” Gillian recounted the MOment. “I was happy he had a familiar face waiting for him!”

 

Mosi seemed to acclimate to his behind-the-scenes quarantine area alMOst immediately. Throughout his first day, he interacted with his new care team, enjoyed enrichment activities, snacked plenty, and even took a few naps!

 

Mosi remained in quarantine (a standard safety step) until our veterinary team checked him out. Once he officially received a clean bill of health from his veterinarians, he was ready to be a part of the Busch Gardens troop!

 

Meeting Whimsie, Merah, and YOU!

 

Once settled in the Gorilla House at Myombe Reserve, Mosi had some time to explore the indoor and outdoor habitats on his own before meeting 9-year-old Whimsie and 10-year-old Merah, the two female Western Lowland Gorillas that call Busch Gardens home. Just a few days later, introductions began!

 

When introducing animals, we look for many of the same positive signs as we do during new arrivals—interest, calmness, and shared behaviors. Within just two hours, Merah, Whimsie, and Mosi were munching on fruits and veggies, playing with enrichment, and even napping near one another. By the next day, they were MOtivated to explore their habitat together!

 

While the trio is still establishing themselves as a group, their interactions have all been very positive. Over the next few weeks, we expect to continue to see Mosi explore his habitat with his new troop, build relationships with his care specialists, and become a fan favorite amongst are guests!

 

We can’t wait for you to welcome Mosi to the Busch Gardens family! Next time you visit, make sure to stop by Myombe to catch a glimpse of the newest member of our gorilla troop!

 

We couldn’t be MOre excited to see you there!