Gorilla Gorilla spp conservation – from zoos to the field and back: examples from the Mbeli Bai Study

Zoos and aquariums undoubtably have an important role to play in supporting species conservation through a diverse range of activities, including public awareness and financial support of field-conservation projects. Charismatic megafauna, such as gorillas Gorilla spp, play a crucial role as flagship species in their range countries, acting as ambassadors for conservation. Here, we present examples from the Mbeli Bai Study (MBS) in northern Congo, a long-term Western lowland gorilla Gorilla gorilla gorilla field-conservation project. We show how collaborations between zoos and field-conservation projects can support each other in numerous ways. Over the last two decades the MBS has received substantial support from zoos. A large portion of the operational budget has been provided by zoos and this has ensured a degree of financial independence over the long term. Intensive exchange of conservation-education techniques in terms of material and staff expertise has been helpful for MBS's education project ‘Club Ebobo’. This has not only provided training for field educators but has also given zoo personnel and visitors better insight into the realities of conservation in range countries. Such exchanges can further help to promote awareness, raising the role of zoos in supporting field-conservation projects. Finally, the knowledge gained through scientific research has proven to be beneficial for animals both in the field (e.g. improved conservation measures) and in captivity (e.g. better-adapted group structure, feeding strategies and environment). Here, we discuss our experience and describe some of the benefits and challenges of conservation collaborations between zoos and field-conservation projects.