Silverback Memba and young Ekuba also spend time together. For easygoing Ekuba, it’s another opportunity to learn from his elders.
The Players Due to a genetic anomaly (the terminal end to chromosome 3, to be precise), Maka is smaller in stature than other silverbacks. Though diagnosed at an early age, he has always been treated the same as the other gorillas, which serves him well now as the dominant member of the bachelor group. Maka is in his prime and doesn’t hesitate to display his elevated status. He who postures is king, and Maka often struts his stuff, with an occasional lunge and smack on the glass toward Zoo guests for emphasis. Younger brother Mandazzi already outweighs him, but Maka’s glistening silver hair trumps a few pounds. For now. Ekuba is an athletic little guy with a big heart. If there is tension or a scuffle going on, he tends to take the underdog’s side. “He has really helped stabilize the bachelor group,” said senior keeper Nerissa Foland. As a shy and friendly gorilla, Ekuba’s social etiquette and fawning over his elders make him a cherished member of the group. Living with the big guys has its perks, and Ekuba often imitates the older ones, even carrying browse between his pursed lips, just as Maka does. “We are managing our bachelor gorillas in various group configurations to meet their social needs,” explained Nerissa. “We follow the clues of their behavior and what the animals are comfortable with. Reading their social cues has helped this bachelor group be successful.” In his youth, Mandazzi was a rambunctious gorilla. He is more subdued now but remains playful and patient with his little brother.
Being second in command doesn’t seem to bother him much, and he allows Maka to do all the posturing. Mandazzi seems to be savoring his black-backed, laid-back time.
Ready? Staff worked together in advance of the bachelor introductions to be ready for any scenario. Wound Treatment Protocol and Management guidelines created by animal care staff ensured everyone was speaking the same language and able to mobilize, if needed, while not compromising the integrity of the group. “Intervention is out of normal husbandry protocol,” explained Kim, “but we had to be ready for anything.” Happily, the guidelines were not needed. There were a few skirmishes, but nothing serious, considering the mighty titans who were going toe-to-toe for alpha status. Displays of aggression can be just as effective as coming to actual blows while sparing everyone a painful healing process. The “boys” are still separated for feeding, which ensures each one gets enough of the good stuff and can enjoy it without having to look over his shoulder. The tasty but less-valued browse is distributed and consumed on exhibit, as these leafy items are not worth fighting over. “We have enjoyed the challenge of forming this new social group,” said Nerissa. “We’re still learning as we go, but it has gone really well so far, and that’s a relief.” And the gorillas seem pretty keen on the new arrangement as well. n
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