Everybody loves the gorillas. This area takes you through a simulated gorilla habitat located in the Africa section. It is just over 15 years old, opening in 2005, but is well maintained. Betty White was the guest speaker at the opening. It is huge, covering 4 acres. It consists of a discovery trail and 3 gorilla habitats. It was a cold day when I visited so I and most all of the other visitors viewed the gorillas from the indoor habitat. That is where all the gorillas were anyway. I guess it was too cold for them to be outside.
Sadly, the gorilla, like so many other animals, is an endangered species that is being brought about due to the loss of their habitat. Zoo exhibits such as this one is vital to the conservation of the species and education about them.
The other two habitats are an open air viewing station from a bridge and a station that you can view the animals through a glass. The gorillas were pretty active in the indoor area and had lots to do and toys to play with. One was positioned for the perfect selfie.
It is said to have 10 gorillas over here, but I did not see that many. There is also a hippo over here, yes a hippo. in the Hippo Falls subsection of the area.
There is a long walkway that connects the habitats that has educational signs about gorillas along the way. There is also a restroom near the end of the area and the African Outpost marks the beginning.
Fun Fact: The American Association of Zoos and Aquariums honored the Louisville Zoo's Gorilla Forest exhibit with an award for excellence and innovation.
I really like this area. It is a close second to my favorite area of the zoo (Glacier Run is first). This is still a must visit and is a fun area to spend time in, especially if you catch some of the gorillas in an interactive mood. read more