Buffalo Zoo Welcomes New Silverback Gorilla, Patas Monkey Troop, and Addax; Says Farewell to Female Gorilla and Greater One-Horned Rhino
The Buffalo Zoo is excited to announce several major additions to our animal family this fall, highlighting the Zoo’s commitment to conservation and species preservation. Among the new arrivals is an impressive silverback gorilla, a new troop of four patas monkeys, three addax antelope, and a diverse array of bird and animal species. This influx of new residents marks an important milestone in the Zoo’s collaborative partnership with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP) to ensure the long-term survival of endangered species and manage genetic diversity across accredited zoos.
Star New Arrival Silverback Gorilla
Leading the group of new arrivals is Babatunde! This magnificent 18-year-old male comes to the Buffalo Zoo from the Bronx Zoo, through the AZA’s Western Lowland Gorilla SSP. Babatunde’s arrival is part of a nationwide effort to support conservation efforts in the wild while ensuring healthy populations in human care. With a commanding presence and engaging personality, Babatunde is sure to become a favorite. While he is currently off exhibit as he settles into his new home, the Buffalo Zoo eagerly looks forward to sharing more details about him soon.
“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.”
Patas Monkeys, New Birds, Mammals and Toads Join Zoo Family
As part of other SSP recommendations, the Buffalo Zoo is also adding a patas monkey troop, growing its collection to ten different primate species. Known for their incredible speed, these energetic animals are bringing new excitement to the Buffalo Zoo. Patas monkeys have not been a part of the Buffalo Zoo’s collections since 1973 and are now on exhibit in the Zoo’s Vanishing Animals exhibit area.
Also new are: three addax, a critically endangered antelope species, with fewer than 100 remaining in the wild; three scarlet ibis, known for their long, curved beaks; one roseate spoonbill, a gregarious wading bird; thirteen Puerto Rican Crested Toads, the only species of toad native to Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands; pair smews, a majestic white diving duck; and three adorable Cheviot sheep, a white faced breed named for the area from which they originate on the English and Scottish boarder. The Cheviot sheep are brand new additions to the Zoo’s Heritage Farm, bringing fresh experiences for visitors.
Departure of Female Gorilla and Greater One-Horned Rhino
While the Buffalo Zoo celebrates the arrival of new animals, it is also bidding farewell to two treasured residents. Nyah, one of the Zoo’s beloved female gorillas, has departed for Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago, and Mohan, a greater one-horned rhinoceros, was relocated to a new AZA-accredited home earlier this month. These moves made in alignment with the AZA Species Survival Plan’s recommendations will ensure that both animals continue to contribute to the health and genetic diversity of their respective species while also making room at the Buffalo Zoo to receive new breeding animals. The Buffalo Zoo staff will miss both Nyah and Mohan dearly.
“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.”
Plan Your Visit to Meet Our New Arrivals!
The Buffalo Zoo invites the public to come meet these incredible new animals and to learn more about their roles in conservation. Visitors can explore the new exhibits and discover the stories behind each species. Check the Buffalo Zoo website for more information and stay tuned to learn more about Babatunde’s coming debut in the weeks ahead.
