Help Celebrate Gorilla Joanne's 5th Birthday At Safari Park

ESCONDIDO, CA – The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is inviting the public to a special celebration Tuesday, March 19, at the gorilla habitat inside Gorilla Forest, in honor of gorilla Joanne, whio is turning 5 years old.

This marks a major milestone for the youngster once called a “miracle baby”due to challenges she overcame following complications during her mother’s labor.

Joanne—named in honor of Joanne Warren, the first chairwoman of the Foundation of San Diego Zoo Global—was born March 12, 2014 at the Safari Park’s Paul Harter Veterinary Hospital.

Because of complications during mother Imani’s labor, Joanne was born via a rare emergency C-section and spent 11 days in the hospital before being reunited with her mother and the other members of her gorilla troop.

Since then, she’s fully recovered, according to park staff, and interacts daily with 2-year-old Leslie and 7-year-old Monroe.

Safari Park animal care staff said Joanne is adapting to fitting into the troop’s social dynamics.

“Each gorilla’s status in the troop is an important one, for a variety of reasons,” said Peggy Sexton, lead mammal keeper at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. “Whereas infants can get away with anything, juveniles are held to a higher standard.”

For Joanne's birthday, Safari Park staff and volunteers are planning a butterfly-themed celebration, in keeping with the upcoming Butterfly Jungle event at the Safari Park.

Joanne will receive special gorilla treats like popcorn, sunflower seeds and dried cereal, plus a special ice “cake” filled and decorated with fruits and veggies. Safari Park guests are encouraged to arrive at the gorilla habitat by 9:15 a.m. March 19 to watch Joanne and her troop enjoy their myriad treats and enrichment items.

To see more on the upcoming Butterfly Jungle that opens March 23, click here.

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