WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) – A new gorilla has moved in at the Sedgwick County Zoo. Mandaazi arrived from the San Diego Zoo last month, but the zoo waited until Thursday to announce it.
The Species Survival Plan recommended moving Mandaazi to Wichita, where he will hopefully father more western lowland gorillas.
In his first month in Wichita, the zoo says Mandaazi has already won the hearts of his care team.
“His favorite activities have been to flirt with all the gorilla girls or kick back and relax – as you can see!” the Sedgwick County Zoo posted on Facebook.
The zoo says Mandaazi is also an enthusiastic participant in its training program and quickly picks up new behaviors.
In San Diego, he led his bachelor troop. In Wichita, the zoo says he is adapting well and bringing a calm and confident presence to his new space.
“We’re thrilled with his progress and can’t wait to see him settle fully into family troop life,” the zoo said.