Amari

A playful curiosity sparked when Amari entered the world at Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust on 15 November 2019. Born to mother Bahasha and father Badongo, she has spent every day under their watchful guidance. Her early weeks were filled with gentle grooming sessions that helped cement the strong bond she shares with her parents.

Now six years old, she roams the spacious enclosures with a confidence that only a captive‑born gorilla can develop. Keepers note her keen interest in enrichment toys, especially those that challenge her problem‑solving skills. Though still young, she already displays the social nuance typical of western lowland gorillas, engaging in play bouts and quiet moments of observation.

The subspecies she represents, Gorilla gorilla gorilla, remains listed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN. Each day at Durrell contributes to the broader effort of preserving these apes, and Amari’s presence offers both educational value for visitors and a living link to conservation goals. Her health checks are routine, and she continues to flourish in the supportive environment her caretakers provide.

Future plans focus on maintaining her natural behaviors while ensuring she remains a vibrant part of the troop. As she approaches adolescence, the team anticipates watching her transition into a key member of the group, embodying the resilience of her species.