Chimpanzees of Mahale Mountains

Named for a thriving population of wild chimpanzees in Tanzania, this expansive habitat aims to inspire awe and appreciation for the natural behavior of these endangered primates. Designed to optimize animal care as well as public viewing opportunities, the exhibit provides the chimpanzees with lots of space and choice within their environment, and the keepers with the flexibility to manage one large group of chimpanzees or multiple smaller groups.

Fast Facts

• Hailed by renowned primatologist Jane Goodall as one of the country’s finest chimpanzee habitats.
• Four main patron viewing areas provide a variety of vantage points to observe chimps; while the animals have opportunities to seek shade or get away from the public eye.
• Outfitted with a variety of enrichment features, including artificial termite mounds and hollow logs in which keepers can hide food items to encourage exploration.
• Designed for maximum flexibility in managing a large multi-male, multi-female troop of chimpanzees. The design of the off-exhibit space facilitates introductions between individuals and allows groups to be separated or integrated as desired.
• A three-story holding area includes heated night quarters, keeper offices, a veterinary room, and a 700-square-foot steel mesh, open-air “penthouse.”