The 18-year-old silverback, who is 5ft 4in tall and weighs 193kg, travelled from Zoo Loro Parque in Tenerife, flying in a custom-built crate supported by a dedicated team of zookeepers, aircraft engineers, cargo handlers, security teams, pilots and drivers.
He arrived at London’s Heathrow Airport late on Friday 18 November, staying overnight before arriving at London Zoo at 8am the following morning.
A team of vets and zookeepers at London Zoo were on hand to receiving, and after giving Kiburi a check-up, he was introduced to his new Gorilla Kingdom home.
Roy Hughes, EVP Network Operations and Aviation Europe at DHL Express, says, “The logistics effort behind transporting him was no mean feat but our team of experts, working closely with ZSL London Zoo and Loro Parque, went to every length to ensure his journey was safe and comfortable. Everyone at DHL is very invested in this conservation move, and we look forward to seeing Kiburi enjoying his new Gorilla Kingdom home.”
Kiburi will lead females Mjukuu and Effie, and youngsters Alika and Gernot at the Gorilla Kingdom, and it is hoped he will increase the gorilla population.
He will spend time exploring his new home and slowly being introduced to his new troop in time for their first family Christmas.