We’re thrilled to share the inspiring rescue story of an infant gorilla, found in and named for Mozambique, who was saved from the illegal wildlife trade through the swift coordination of various government agencies. The Mozambique Wildlife Alliance (MWA) and law enforcement officials worked tirelessly to ensure her safety, confiscating and processing crucial permits for her transport from Mozambique through Angola to the Jane Goodall Institute’s Tchimpounga sanctuary in the Republic of the Congo.
Having received a tip regarding a trafficked “monkey,” Mozambique’s investigation police, with the support of the Mozambique Wildlife Alliance (MWA), set up a sting operation to confiscate Mozambique.
After the confiscation, she was identified as a Western lowland gorilla and brought to MWA headquarters, where Dr. Isabel Almeida, a veterinarian, could provide initial care. When she was received, she was very small for her age but in good health.
The individuals involved in illegally trafficking her indicated that ZZ was transported via Zimbabwe and originated in the coastal Mayombe forest which spans Gabon, the Republic of the Congo, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Angola.
Dr. Rebeca Atencia, JGI Republic of the Congo’s Executive Director and Head Veterinarian of Tchimpounga, with support from the Pan African Sanctuary Alliance, teamed up with MWA’s Dr. Almeida to stabilize Mozambique (also nicknamed “ZZ”) and prepare her for her new home.
Antoinette, a long-time caregiver at Tchimpounga, graciously came out of retirement to be ZZ’s human “mother.” With her expert care, ZZ’s quarantine period has progressed beautifully. She is now stable, eating well, and showing great signs of energy and a light-hearted personality. Despite this, she does show signs of physical and psychological trauma.
Infant gorillas need incredibly sensitive care, especially in their early years. ZZ will be under the expert care of Tchimpounga staff for the next two years before she joins other gorillas at another facility. This specialized care ensures she grows up healthy and strong. After her quarantine period she will be introduced to another similarly sized chimpanzee named Ada who was recently rescued.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Mozambique Wildlife Alliance, the Government of Mozambique (National Administration of Conservation Areas), the Government of the Republic of the Congo (Ministry of Forest Economy), the Government of Angola (Ministry of Environment, CITES Authority, & National Institute for Biodiversity Conservation), TAAG Airlines, Kissama Foundation, Foundation Brigitte Bardot, Ivan Carter Wildlife Alliance, Pan African Sanctuary Alliance, Jane Goodall Institute Republic of the Congo, and Jane Goodall Institute USA. Together, we can inspire hope through action!
To learn more about and support the Jane Goodall Institute’s Tchimpounga sanctuary and our wildlife rehabilitation work, check out our 🔗 Chimpanzee Guardian program.
Photo credits, in order of appearance: JGI/Heather Anne Vanek, JGI/Fernando Turmo, JGI/Rebeca Atencia
*Dr. Goodall and the Jane Goodall Institute do not endorse handling or close proximity to wildlife. This represents a sanctuary context with trained professionals.*
