Little Joe.Photo: Franklin Park Zoo
BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — Franklin Park Zoo has announced one of its beloved residents is leaving Boston and moving to a new home where he's expected to start his own family.
Western lowland gorilla Little Joe at 33 years old, has been recommended and approved by the Gorilla Species Survival Plan to play a direct role in helping the survival of the lowland gorilla, a critically endangered species.
Zoo New England President and CEO Stephanie Brinely said the move is "bittersweet" for the Franklin Park Zoo team, but they are "excited for this opportunity for him to lead his own troop and start a family, which is important for the preservation of the species."
She said great care is being taken to prepare for Little Joe's move.
The zoo also announced it will be receiving two young gorillas.
8-year-old Moke is arriving later this spring from the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute.
Then, later this year, a male silverback gorilla will also join the gorilla family at Franklin Park Zoo from another institution.
The two bachelor newcomers will be joining the zoo's current gorilla resident, 5-year-old Pedro.
April is Ape Awareness Month, and during APE-ril School Vacation Week, running through April 25 at Franklin Park Zoo, guests of all ages can learn more about western lowland gorillas, how they can help protect this critically endangered species, and wish Little Joe well as he prepares for his move to his new home.