The San Antonio Zoo in Texas has shared a first look at Congo Falls, its new gorilla habitat set to open on 13 December.
For the first time in more than 30 years, the zoo is welcoming back gorillas with its new habitat, a two-acre lush environment featuring three distinct areas.
These are Lowland Basin, Indoor Rainforest and Gorilla Gorge, home to seven Western Lowland gorillas.
The habitats will combine lush natural landscapes, dynamic water features, enrichment areas and expansive viewing opportunities for guests and the gorillas.
Highlights include the Mays Family Silverback Peak – the tallest gorilla tower in the world at more than 70 feet.
"Congo Falls is more than an attraction, it's a testament of our commitment to secure a future for wildlife," said Tim Morrow, president and CEO of San Antonio Zoo.
"The world-class habitat will allow guests to connect with gorillas like never before, providing an experience that inspires awe, curiosity, and a deeper appreciation for these remarkable species.
"Congo Falls is labor of love and a historic moment not just for our zoo, but for conservation efforts across the globe."
Beyond the new Congo Falls habitat, the San Antonio Zoo collaborates with leading conservation partners to ensure genetically diverse, sustainable gorilla populations.
These include the the Gorilla Rehabilitation and Conservation Education Center (GRACE) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, and the AZA Gorilla SAFE program.
The grand opening of Congo Falls on 13 December will include a 15-minute drone show, with hundreds of drones lighting up the sky with a tribute to gorillas and conservation.
To celebrate the launch of Congo Falls, the zoo will also debut a new podcast, Edge of the Earth: Tales of Conservation.
This will explore the science and stories behind wildlife conservation.
Images courtesy of San Antonio Zoo
