|
Most gorillas living in zoos today were born in captivity. Their ancestors
originated in the enormous rain forests of Cameroon, Gaboon and the Republic
of Congo. Since 1956 gorillas have been bred in zoos and the captive population
now seems to be self-sustaining.
The methods of keeping gorillas in captivity have improved considerably
over the last few decades. Observations of free-ranging gorillas have
made an important contribution to these improvements. Gorillas are highly
social animals who should live in groups. Whereas the gorillas' social
structure can be emulated easily in zoos, it is hardly possible to duplicate
their natural habitat. The space available in captivity, for instance,
is very limited and only very robust plants survive in gorilla enclosures.
As gorillas are very intelligent, they can get bored easily and behavioural
enrichment is absolutely necessary for their mental health.
Enriching the enclosure with partitions, compartments and climbing structures
enables the animals to get out of each others' way. A distinct barrier
between the cage and the visitors' area, i.e. a grid or a pane of glass,
is necessary. The visitors should accept that the gorillas' well-being
is the prerequisite for their survival. By now, many zoos have recognised
this and they design their enclosures accordingly. From the perspective
of species conservation, keeping gorillas in captivity is justified only
if they are kept in the best possible conditions.
 
Gorilla enclosures in Basel with several rooms and
in Apeldoorn with a large outdoor area (mixed-species exhibit with
patas monkeys)
 Photos:
Angela Meder
References
|
Gorillas in
Zoos
