Matadi is rather more muscular and has a thicker coat than the other young males at Paignton. The date for his move to Howletts has not been announced yet. Gorilla Island, Paignton, 12th May 2015.
'Matadi' is rather more muscular and has a thicker coat than the other young males at Paignton. The date for his move to Howletts has not been announced yet. Gorilla Island, Paignton, 12th May 2015.
He will be leaving the building permanently soon,, but it seems not quite yet (more delays ) He is certainly beginning to look muscular- Gigit's photo from last year is a useful comparison and he has changed a bit from that, plus that little crest appearing now.
He weighs 365 lb (165 kg), according to the report of his medical on the zoo's website. This is a little more than I would have expected, as I think he still has some growing to do. He is getting his crest, but a fringe of hair exaggerates it in my photos this week. The keeper says he is the grumpiest of the gorillas, which I take as a sign that he can become a successful breeder, and they have trained him in some simple procedures.
Given his background, mother-raised and still living with females until sent to Paignton, I would expect 100% likely outcome he will breed as soon as he has females of his own.
He is only just over twelve and, compared to some males of that age, still quite undeveloped. 'Round-headed' is the term I use for his appearance at this stage. His father Sekondi was quite a late developer too and I think this is a trait that may be inherited.
