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April 2011 Update From a Great Ape House Keeper

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Kibibi continues to become more adventurous and grow more independent of her mother, Mandara. Only when she is nervous does she stay close to mom, or ride on Mandara’s back. Kibibi enjoys spending time with and rides on the back of her older sister Kigali or her older brother Kojo. Mandara will get involved if Kojo gets a little too rambunctious. She likes to make lots of noise, be that drumming on objects within the enclosures, or hitting the glass windows or the mesh. She has also learned to chest beat. Of course, she's not very indimidating. She uses her new talent mostly in play.

At just over two years of age, Kibibi weighs about 25 pounds. While she seems small for a gorilla her age, she finds plenty of food to eat out in the yard. She has also has learned to gather up her favorite foods and climb high in the indoor enclosures to enjoy her preferred treats. When Mandara steals some of her afternoon diet, she will turn around and steal some of her mom’s. When given enrichment items, she protects them for as long as she possibly can.

Kibibi has joined the Zoo's training program. She knows how to station train, and will sit in front of her colored frisbee waiting for her reinforcement. She has learned to present her hand and nose on cue, and will also sit, stand, and climb on cue. She enjoys training because she knows she gets lots of grapes. Kibibi had her first physical in March. She received vaccines and a clean bill of health. Read more.

Over the last year, Kibibi has grown more confident, continues to be playful, and her personality thrives. Her keepers enjoy a good play session with her, which helps develop a positive working relationship.

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