A 24-year-old western lowland gorilla named Johari has arrived at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo, marking a significant step for gorilla conservation efforts in Canada. Transferred from the Toronto Zoo under the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan, Johari is expected to be a potential breeding partner for silverback Jasiri, one of only a few breeding males in Canadian accredited zoos.The zoo’s animal care director Colleen Baird said Johari brings a “charismatic personality and playful spirit” to the troop and noted her close bond with Dossi, another female known for accessorizing with enrichment items. “We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome Johari to our troop,” said Baird. “We’re honored to now carry on the role of caring for her here in Calgary.”.The move was months in the making, requiring coordinated efforts between the Calgary and Toronto zoos. Johari underwent training and health checks in Toronto before travelling west, accompanied by a trusted caregiver. A Calgary zoo staffer also travelled to Toronto in advance to begin building a relationship with her and ensure a smooth transition.Johari will remain behind the scenes in quarantine for the coming weeks in the zoo’s African Rainforest building as she adjusts to her new surroundings and gradually meets the other gorillas.This marks the second time a gorilla has moved from Toronto to Calgary. In 2001, Zuri made the same journey and later gave birth to Yewande in 2008. That family line grew again in 2023 with the birth of Yewande’s son, Okabe..The zoo says it has strengthened its safety and welfare protocols following the 2024 death of Eyare, another western lowland gorilla. Baird said the zoo remains committed to the highest standards of care. “Welcoming Johari represents not only a new chapter for our troop but also a reaffirmation of our commitment to conservation, animal care and transparency with our community.”Western lowland gorillas are listed as critically endangered due to habitat loss, hunting, human conflict and climate change. Of the 16 gorillas in Canadian AZA-accredited zoos, only four males live with female troops, making transfers like Johari’s crucial for preserving genetic diversity.While Johari won’t be visible to the public immediately, the zoo will share updates on her integration through social media.
