A 425-pound silverback gorilla, Mosi, has arrived at Busch Gardens. Learn about the AZA Species Survival Plan move and how the new Busch Gardens gorilla is settling in with Whimsie and Merah at Myombe Reserve.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay announced some huge, heart-pounding news from Myombe Reserve. A new, magnificent silverback Western Lowland Gorilla, 19-year-old Mosi, has joined the Busch Gardens family, marking an exciting new chapter for our gorilla troop and for conservation efforts.
Mosi, a stately 425-pound silverback, traveled to Tampa last month from Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago. This vital move was meticulously planned through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP), an incredible program that acts as a matchmaker to ensure genetic diversity and support the long-term conservation of endangered animals.
A Familiar Face Travels to Tampa
Planning a trip for a gorilla of Mosi’s size is a massive undertaking. The process, carefully coordinated by the care teams at Lincoln Park Zoo and Busch Gardens, began in late summer. To ensure Mosi would feel most comfortable, Myombe Team member Gillian Mescher-Rodriguez flew north to spend time with Mosi and his caregivers in Chicago. This crucial visit allowed Gillian to learn about Mosi’s personality and preferences, including his favorite treat: peanut butter.
“It was rewarding to know that we had built a relationship during my time at Lincoln Park Zoo that could translate here and help him transition to our care,” Gillian recounted. “I was happy he had a familiar face waiting for him!”
The momentous journey took place over two days in mid-October. It started with a road trip and concluded with a flight to Tampa. Mosi was continuously monitored by a veterinarian and a great ape specialist throughout the travel. Upon his gentle arrival and release from his travel crate on October 16th, he quickly demonstrated his comfort by immediately eating his favorite snacks, lettuce, bananas, and yes, lots of peanut butter from Gillian.
Meeting Whimsie and Merah
After successfully completing a standard quarantine period and receiving a clean bill of health from the veterinary team, Mosi was ready for the next big step: meeting his new troop members. He was introduced to the two female Western Lowland Gorillas who call Myombe Reserve home: 9-year-old Whimsie and 10-year-old Merah.
The introductions were calm, positive, and quick. Within just two hours, the trio was seen sharing food, engaging in enrichment activities, and napping near each other. By the next morning, they were motivated to explore their habitat together. While they are still establishing their dynamic, the positive interactions signal a wonderful future for the new troop.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay News
In addition to the arrival of Mosi, the new Busch Gardens gorilla, Christmas Town has started at the Tampa theme park. Additionally, the new Lion & Hyena Ridge is set to open in 2026. In addition, for those seeking to take a free shuttle from Orlando to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, the service will continue until at least February 1, 2026.
Come Welcome Mosi, the New Busch Gardens Gorilla
Next time you visit Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, be sure to stop by Myombe Reserve to catch a glimpse of Mosi, the new Busch Gardens gorilla, as he explores his new habitat with Whimsie and Merah. He’s already becoming a fan favorite.
For more theme park-related news and information, visit MSM News.
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