Australasian Western Lowland Gorilla Population
- Thread starter Zoofan15
- Start date
Yes, I see Balu transferred out early on as after Bongo and Mouila had Kriba in 1979; Balu sired Jock at La Palmyre in 1983. Jock was his second offspring though, with Balu siring one offspring at Apenheul - Dibo, born 1980 to Lobo.
I had wondered if it was deliberate Mouila never bred a second time with Bongo (i.e she was placed on contraception) with the view of her, Kriba and Frala forming a second troop with a new male. Despite transferring out Balu, some thought was surely given early on to accomodating the breeding of the first generation females - with Kibabu’s troop breeding at natural birth intervals (each female had three offspring approx three years apart) leading up to the export of their troop in 1996.
Despite concerns Mouila wouldn’t nurse her infant (I see from one of your old posts, a baby spider monkey was given to her under keeper supervision to practice maternal care while pregnant with Kriba), she made an excellent mother to Kriba and was regarded the most attentive mother in Taronga’s troop. Kriba was an excellent mother (as we’re seeing with Kaius), but lacked her mother’s self assuredness; and Frala was known to be abrupt with the others, including her offspring.
Frala was unusual in that she encouraged her offspring to ride on her back from birth. I often wonder if this went back to her Apenheul days. The first offspring in the Kibabu troop were Joas (born July 1989 to Kriba); and Bauwi (born July 1989 to Mouila). Frala gave birth in September 1989, leading up to the other two infants reaching the age they begin to ride on their mother’s backs (typically from three months). Perhaps she followed Mouila/Kriba’s example in this case.
Last edited:
Considering the large amount of females had, I do wonder too whether there was always the intention to essentially split the group with some of the first generation born females.
At the time, Kibabu was quite a valuable male. He only had four surviving siblings on his mothers side (only one of which who too was in a breeding situation at the time), and most of his siblings on his father's side were living/breeding over in the USA.
Additionally you had Mouila (a wildborn), her only surviving daughter (Kriba) and Frala another daughter of two founders who weren't nowhere as near represented as they are today. This is why most of their initial offspring received breeding application overseas - compared to the Taronga borns who have either not bred at all or bred just within Australia.
At the present time Mouila and Kriba's lines are quite well represented - however I do wonder whether one of Frala son's may recieve an additional recommendation soon due to her only grandchildren being the two sons of her two eldest daughters.
Do we know if Frala raised Kukuma? I noticed this interesting note on the Dewar website;
in Belfast 04-Oct-93 from Stuttgart nursery; Dam reared 1 yr
The Apenheul troop was initially very genetically valuable, being comprised of mostly wild born founders (including the parents of Kriba and Frala). Furthermore, gorilla breeding in Europe was taking off, but was by no means as commonplace/easily achieved as it was today. It was given that every female born in the 70’s and 80’s would go straight into a breeding troop upon reaching adolescence; and numerous males were similarly given the chance (most of Jambo and Bongo’s sons went on to breed for example).
The other difference is the lack of contraception - with even both Jersey and Apenheul’s troops breeding without the use of artificial births intervals (common in both European and Australian zoos today).
Mouila’s line is significantly more represented than Mintha’s. In addition to the wealth of descendants she has from Kriba (all of her five daughters have bred); three of Mouila’s four sons have become silverbacks of breeding troops. With that in mind, I could absolutely see one of Frala’s sons breeding. Potentially Fataki could be the best option; with Taronga’s three adolescent males then joining Fuzu. It seems a waste of a cohesive bachelor grouping to remove Fabumi from the trio he’s in; and there’s a strong likelihood Kibale will sire more infants.
I’ve seen that note too. My interpretation is Frala raised Kukuma for one year until late 1990; whereupon he was removed (for reasons unknown) and sent to Stuggart. He was castrated at either Apenheul or Stuggart; before being sent on to Belfast in 1993, aged four years.
This is supported by Frala giving birth to Shinda in June 1991. Birth intervals of 2-3 years have been recorded; but 21 months is irregular following a mother-raised infant. A gestation of eight months supports Kukuma being removed at 12 months; and then Frala conceiving Shinda a month or so later.
When the boys first went to Orana there was conversation of one of the 'F' brothers potentially being a silverback one day. I would love to see Fataki given the chance. He's always been an impressive boy. Even so he's always been a bit of a trouble maker. I ponder whether that will affect his chances at being given a go.
That’s an interesting point as Fataki was noticeably more trouble for Kibabu than Haoko and Shabani, who both remained in the troop well into adolescence. I feel like Frala was a contributing factor here as she benefited from Fataki causing chaos. Like Frala, her sons likely resented their family group’s lower status compared to Mouila and Kriba’s family units.
Fataki’s troublemaking could also be an indication of his ambition for power, meaning he could in fact be an excellent silverback (providing he didn’t exert too much power and become a tyrant). I can imagine him keeping his sons in check compared to more laid back males. He’s seemingly done a good job of leading Fuzu (and formerly Mahale) in Orana’s bachelor troop.
Him and Mbeli were certainly trouble makers. Kimya wasn't too far behind but she was always the more reserved and quiet female (hence her name). Once Mbeli was sent to Melbourne in 2010, it was perhaps hoped Fataki would 'mellow' out but within a few years he was back up to his same antics with his younger brother.
On breeding, I do think Fataki would be the best option to become a silverback. He's of a good age (soon to be twenty two) and has had experience both within a breeding group and a bachelor group as seems to be the priority these days. By all accounts, his younger brother, Fuzu is far more laid back than his older brother and would stand better chance integrating with his younger brother/cousins from Taronga.
Mouila apparently always loved to spoil her kids and it's no surprise to see all of her surviving offspring have developed very impressive social skills and are excellent parents and leaders. It's no wonder Kriba was a drama queen when she'd have her mum come running when there was conflict abrew.
It’s likely the demographics of the troop had an influence on the personalities of Taronga’s infants. After nearly a decade of natural breeding, the females were placed on contraception following the losses of Frala’s infants in 1998 and 1999; and a four year gap followed:
The first (surviving) cohort were born between 2003 (Mbeli and Fataki) and 2005 (Kimya), which was 7-9 years after the next oldest members of the troop - Shabani and Safiri. By the time Mbeli, Fataki and Kimya were into the juvenile stage, their older siblings had all transitioned out of the troop. Mbeli as the oldest of her cohort and the offspring of the alpha female reportedly enjoyed the status that came from being Mouila’s offspring. Fataki was the only male of the cohort and the largest; and had no older siblings to discipline him. Kimya was the youngest/smallest and had siblings two years her senior, who would have been bigger and stronger than her. It’s no wonder she appeared quiet by comparison.
The next cohort was Fuzu (2006) and Mahale (2008). Unlike the previous cohort, they grew up with siblings a few years older, who would have suppressed them - especially Fataki, who was still in the troop once they reached the juvenile stage. Fataki was very much into his antagonistic phase by that time, with Mahale reportedly trying to distract him with play to protect Mouila from him.
I've noticed quite a few females in zoos doing this with their babies, though perhaps not as soon as that. It can't be a natural behaviour though as in the wild they would soon get swept off by the undergrowth as the group travelled. Even though a baby at birth has a strong grip it isn't programmed to ride dorsally for some months, but many females seem to adopt the habit prematurely, presumably because its easier than carrying them ventrally. Similarly some carry them in their hand or gripping on to the arm, which makes walking easier for the mother. I think it must be something that develops from the more relaxed and 'static' conditions of a zoo enclosure.
It definitely sounds like a captive phenomenon. Frala was also carrying Fuzu on her arm in several videos I’ve seen of him at the older infant stage (circa 18-24 months).
Media releases from the birth of Fuzu noted that Frala had a different parenting style to Mouila and Kriba, but that the staff were used to that given Frala was an experienced mother. On the whole, she had a decent survival rate with seven of her nine offspring surviving the neonate stage.
As a side note, regarding demographics of the troop, the gender ratio of the offspring are interesting:
Mouila had three sons from 1990-1996; then a daughter and a son in 2003-2008.
Frala had two daughters from 1991-1994; then two sons in 2003-2007.
Kriba had five daughters from 1989-2011.
*Not counting Frala’s son who was removed at one year of age; or the two offspring she lost as neonates in 1998 and 1999.
Interesting you mention this - I think this may have been quite common especially in the Apenhaul troop. Kimya used to carry Kanzi around in her arm, and recent videos of the infant at Mogo show Kipenzi doing the same.
On Frala here's two photos - one of which showing her with Fabumi (carrying him in her arm/on her belly) and the other with Fataki (with him on her back);
Baby gorilla stays close to mum, keeps Taronga Zoo keepers guessing
PA PHOTOS / AAP - UK USE ONLY: The newest addition to Sydney's Taronga Zoo gorilla family, 11 day old Fataki with her mother Frala. Fataki is the 12th offspring of the male silverback Kibabu and was born on Kibabu's 26th birthday Stock Photo - Alamy
By carrying on the arm, I meant when mother gorillas wear their infant like a wristwatch. It’s common (especially for Frala’s offspring) around the 18-24 month mark. Frala is seen carrying Fuzu this way at 1.09 in the video below. In this instance he’s changed position (after being on her back) during the conflict with Kibabu; but I’ve also seen Frala carry her offspring this way numerous times during periods of non-conflict.
In your first photo, Frala is supporting Fabumi to cling to her belly. She seems to do this for no more than 2-3 weeks before deciding having the infant on her back is easier. Most females wait 3-6 months before transitioning their infant to this position.
Video from 2009 shows conflict between Kibabu (1977) and Fataki (2003); with the latter supported by his mother Frala (1981), carrying her infant Fuzu (2007); and the two other juvenile females Mbeli (2003) and Kimya (2005).
To be honest, I've never noticed that before and it certainly looks odd and unusual. To me it looks like this was merely a pure instance of the occasion, Fuzu slipped/climbed off during the conflict and Frala was carrying him but obviously using all four limbs to move would've been more effective/efficient so that is effectively what she had to do (with him clinging to her arm).
However if this is something you've seen at other times perhaps this is a habit she's adapted as a mother over time; perhaps a result of occasions like this where's she's had to move abruptly whilst carrying her infant.
That fight video has always intrigued as it seems Frala starts the whole thing - screaming, although I'm not sure what exactly about. Kibabu then seems to try to 'subdue' her and this leads to the fight. Fataki can be seen trying to protect his mum (holding onto her back) in the beginning of the video and Kimya can also be seen; she and Fataki both run at Kibabu after he tries to grab Mbeli. Mbeli on the other hand at one point hits Kibabu and he proceeds to chase her across the exhibit until she hides behind Frala for protection. I wonder where Kriba and Mouila where at this point in time!
To be honest, I've never noticed that before and it certainly looks odd and unusual. To me it looks like this was merely a pure instance of the occasion, Fuzu slipped/climbed off during the conflict and Frala was carrying him but obviously using all four limbs to move would've been more effective/efficient so that is effectively what she had to do (with him clinging to her arm).
However if this is something you've seen at other times perhaps this is a habit she's adapted as a mother over time; perhaps a result of occasions like this where's she's had to move abruptly whilst carrying her infant.
That fight video has always intrigued as it seems Frala starts the whole thing - screaming, although I'm not sure what exactly about. Kibabu then seems to try to 'subdue' her and this leads to the fight. Fataki can be seen trying to protect his mum (holding onto her back) in the beginning of the video and Kimya can also be seen; she and Fataki both run at Kibabu after he tries to grab Mbeli. Mbeli on the other hand at one point hits Kibabu and he proceeds to chase her across the exhibit until she hides behind Frala for protection. I wonder where Kriba and Mouila where at this point in time!
It’s unfortunate the video doesn’t provide more context as to the start of the conflict, but it’s very clear that Frala, Mbeli, Fataki and Kimya have all taken a side against Kibabu, who is trying to discipline them (swiping at Frala; and chasing the juveniles). It appears a good example of the troop (usually the adult females) supporting each other when they feel the silverback has gone too far in exerting his authority.
Mouila and Kriba are indeed nowhere in sight, but I’ve seen a video before of Kibabu having an altercation with Fataki and Frala and she comes running over (with Kipenzi on her back) to watch!
This video from 2008 is also interesting. Frala purses Kriba, who flees (pushing away Kimya). Frala follows Kriba (screaming), then looks to Kibabu for support. Mouila is off screen. She glad given birth to Mahali three weeks prior and likely didn’t want to get involved:
Seems fairly clear to me there is an 'intermission' at the start of the video from a previous bout of fighting, so the original cause isn't shown. A voice right at the start says 'that was the females doing the yelling' before we hear anything, indicating it was ongoing. So Frala's initial screaming is probably because she's apprehensive and expecting more.
Yes, that appears to be the case.
Mouila and Kriba are absent from the action indicating neither of their daughters were the cause of the conflict. My money would be on Frala reacting to Kibabu disciplining her; or supporting Fataki, who may have done something to provoke his father. The two juvenile females then come to support Frala/Fataki.
I'd imagine Kukuma was castrated at Stuttgart as he was being handraised and was 'available' for what was then really an experiment to see if a castrated gorilla could live in a group longerterm, as an alternative to male groups. He was the first the EEP undertook.
That makes sense, considering he otherwise wouldn't have been the best candidate genetically wise at the time if they really had a 'choice' so to speak.
Is there any reason why Kukuma was being hand raised in Stuttgart? It appears he was initially raised by Frala for about a year or so.
I can't answer that I'm afraid.
Mogo Wildlife Park - infant sexed as a female:
Kipenzi’s infant has been sexed as a female and was born February 9.
https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/n...k=437526c2f5b2c26ca2254a7faca369b8-1741467521
This birth brings the troop to 1.3 adults and 1.1 infants:
1.0 Kisane (18/08/2006) Djanghou x Sanki; Imported 2019
0.1 G-Ann (08/06/1979) Moemba x Fern; Imported 1997
0.1 Kriba (09/08/1979) Bongo x Mouila; Imported 1996
0.1 Kipenzi (14/01/2011) Kibabu x Kriba
1.0 Kaius (21/10/2022) Kisane x Kipenzi
0.1 Unnamed (09/02/2025) Kisane x Kipenzi
Though a male would have been valuable in joining Kaius to form a bachelor troop a decade from now, it’s undeniable a female will have a range of applications to the breeding programme.
Kipenzi’s infant has been sexed as a female and was born February 9.
https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/n...k=437526c2f5b2c26ca2254a7faca369b8-1741467521
This birth brings the troop to 1.3 adults and 1.1 infants:
1.0 Kisane (18/08/2006) Djanghou x Sanki; Imported 2019
0.1 G-Ann (08/06/1979) Moemba x Fern; Imported 1997
0.1 Kriba (09/08/1979) Bongo x Mouila; Imported 1996
0.1 Kipenzi (14/01/2011) Kibabu x Kriba
1.0 Kaius (21/10/2022) Kisane x Kipenzi
0.1 Unnamed (09/02/2025) Kisane x Kipenzi
Though a male would have been valuable in joining Kaius to form a bachelor troop a decade from now, it’s undeniable a female will have a range of applications to the breeding programme.