Chester Zoo is a leading conservation and wildlife charity in the UK, and among its diverse animal collection, the zoo houses the Eastern lowland gorillas (Gorilla beringei graueri), also known as Grauer’s gorillas. Unfortunately, the zoo currently does not have gorillas on display, as mentioned in a Tripadvisor review.
Gorilla Enclosure and History
Historically, the zoo housed gorillas in the Tropical House, along with tropical birds and plants. The gorillas shared the enclosure with Eastern lowland gorillas Mukisi and Noelle, who arrived in 2014. However, the zoo no longer displays gorillas, as indicated by the disappointed reviewer on Tripadvisor.
Virtual Reality Experiences
Chester Zoo offers virtual reality (VR) experiences, allowing visitors to engage with endangered species from around the world. The VR experiences include the Gorilla Trek, which takes visitors on a journey to the forests of East Africa to observe a troop of endangered gorillas from Rwanda in a 360° visual experience with motion seats, immersive VR headsets, and audio.
VR Experience Details
The VR experiences, including the Gorilla Trek, last approximately 7 minutes and are open 7 days a week from 9:30 am until zoo closing time, including weekends and school holidays. These experiences are not recommended for guests who suffer from photosensitive epilepsy, have back and neck problems, or are pregnant. All participants must have a ticket for the zoo or a valid membership card, and the zoo only accepts card purchases for this experience.
VR Pricing
Chester Zoo offers discounted rates for its VR experiences. Members can enjoy the VR experience for only £5 each, with a further discount of £8 for two members. Non-members can pre-book their VR ticket online as an added extra when purchasing their zoo ticket or on-the-day at the VR theatre.
Gorilla Conservation Efforts
While Chester Zoo no longer has live gorillas on display, the zoo remains committed to gorilla conservation efforts. The zoo supports various conservation projects and research initiatives focused on protecting the endangered Eastern lowland gorillas, also known as Grauer’s gorillas.
Grauer’s Gorilla Population Status
The Eastern lowland gorilla, or Grauer’s gorilla, is classified as an Endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The population of Grauer’s gorillas has declined by more than 80% over the past two decades, with an estimated 3,800 individuals remaining in the wild.
Chester Zoo’s Conservation Partnerships
Chester Zoo collaborates with various organizations and partners to support gorilla conservation efforts. The zoo works closely with the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, a leading non-profit organization dedicated to the protection and study of mountain gorillas and their habitats. Additionally, Chester Zoo supports the work of the Gorilla Rehabilitation and Conservation Education (GRACE) Center, which focuses on the rehabilitation and reintroduction of orphaned Grauer’s gorillas.
Gorilla Habitat Protection
Chester Zoo’s conservation efforts also extend to protecting the natural habitats of Grauer’s gorillas. The zoo supports initiatives that aim to safeguard the forests and ecosystems of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where these gorillas are found. This includes supporting anti-poaching patrols, community-based conservation programs, and sustainable land-use practices.
Conclusion
While Chester Zoo no longer has live gorillas on display, the zoo remains committed to gorilla conservation through its virtual reality experiences and support for various conservation initiatives. The Gorilla Trek VR experience offers visitors a unique opportunity to engage with these magnificent creatures and learn about the challenges they face in the wild. By supporting Chester Zoo’s conservation efforts, visitors can contribute to the protection and preservation of the endangered Eastern lowland gorillas.
References:
– https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g186233-d213872-r140947708-Chester_Zoo-Chester_Cheshire_England.html
– https://www.chesterzoo.org/virtual-reality-experiences/
– https://www.chesterzoo.org/memories/gorillas-arrive-at-the-zoo/
– https://www.zoochat.com/community/threads/gorillas-at-chester.10078/
– https://www.chesterzoo.org/our-zoo/animals/
– https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/39995/17989492
– https://gorillafund.org/
– https://gracegorillas.org/