Vila

A wild‑caught female western lowland gorilla arrived in the United States in the mid‑1970s, becoming a familiar face at San Diego’s facilities. Born on 1 January 1957 in the Congo, she later joined the San Diego Zoo, where keepers first observed her gentle demeanor. In August 1975 she was transferred to the adjacent Safari Park, a move that gave her more space to roam and interact with her troop.

Throughout more than six decades, Vila witnessed generations of gorillas come and go, her presence a quiet anchor for the group. Her long life gave staff valuable insights into the aging process of this critically endangered subspecies, informing care practices for other residents. Even as age took its toll, she remained a beloved member of the community.

When she passed away on 25 January 2018 at the Safari Park, the loss was felt deeply by the caretakers who had known her for over four decades. Vila’s 61 years stand as a reminder of both the fragility and resilience of western lowland gorillas in captivity.