Special Delivery: DHL Secures Air Transport for Gorilla Kiburi to New Habitat at London Zoo, Just in Time for Christmas!

DHL Express has safely transported the western lowland gorilla named Kiburi to her new habitat at the London Zoo as part of an international program for the rescue of endangered species.

Eighteen-year-old Kiburi, who traveled from the Loro Parque Zoo in Tenerife, received excellent treatment during her journey of 3,063 kilometers – she traveled in a custom-made crate with continuous support from a dedicated team of zookeepers, aviation engineers, logistics staff, security team, pilots, and drivers. Weighing 193 kilograms and standing 165 centimeters tall, Kiburi enjoyed a variety of fruits and vegetables, as well as fruit tea, during her flight.

Upon landing in London on November 18, Kiburi spent the night at Heathrow Airport. The following morning, she arrived at the zoo, where she was greeted by a team of veterinarians and keepers who conducted a thorough examination. After that, she was safely settled into her new home – the Gorilla Kingdom.

– Helping Kiburi relocate to London was a great privilege for us. The logistical effort behind her transport was no small feat, but our team of experts worked closely with the London Zoo to ensure her journey was as safe and comfortable as possible. Everyone at DHL was very focused on this endangered species protection endeavor, and we look forward to seeing Kiburi enjoying her new home – said Roy Hughes, EVP of Network Operations & EU Aviation at DHL Express.

Kiburi will lead the world-famous group at the London Zoo, including females Mjukuu and Effie, as well as youngsters Aliku and Gernot – with the hope that the attempt to find a mate will lead to further increases in their population. Step by step, Kiburi will get to know her new group so they can spend their first family Christmas together this year.

– We are grateful to DHL for their first-class care of our big package during this carefully planned delivery – said Glynn Hennessy, keeper at the London Zoo.

– Unfortunately, the western lowland gorillas, found in central and western Africa, are becoming fewer and fewer. Factors affecting this include poaching, disease, deforestation, and the impact of climate change. In collaboration with other partners, the world-renowned ZSL Institute of Zoology is participating in this important global program aimed at strengthening the protection and monitoring of wildlife, as well as empowering local communities to combat poaching and other crimes. We hope to see a group of baby gorillas in the Gorilla Kingdom again over time – which will significantly contribute to reducing the number of endangered species – added Dan Simmonds, operations manager at the London Zoo, who oversaw the relocation.

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photo Zsl London Zoo/dominic Lipinski

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