The first gorilla born in Andalusia turns five while learning through play

At Bioparc Fuengirola, there has been a celebration this Friday. Ekan, the first gorilla born in Andalusia, has turned five years old, continuing to write this success story within the European endangered species conservation program (EEP).

The celebration included a cake made by the team of caregivers, composed of fruits and vegetables, intended not only as a symbolic gesture but also as an environmental enrichment activity that stimulates curiosity, play, and social cohesion among the group members.

The Bioparc Fuengirola team is using training and cognitive enrichment programs with Ekan aimed at improving the physical and emotional well-being of the animals, which they have been developing for years.

The case of Ekan has been "especially relevant," according to Bioparc, because the training started earlier than usual

The case of Ekan has been "especially relevant," Bioparc reports, because the training started earlier than usual. Since March of that year, he began to respond to simple commands, and in December, a clinical program adapted to his behavior and capabilities was launched. "His high motivation and eagerness to play have allowed notable progress, creating a strong bond of trust with his caregiver and demonstrating that learning and well-being can go hand in hand," they assure.

An Essential Stage

At five years old, gorillas are at an essential stage of social learning and identity development within the group. In the case of Ekan, the Bioparc Fuengirola team highlights his "growing hierarchical understanding, learning to recognize dominant individuals and to act according to the social rules of the group."

Although still very attached to his mother, he already shows great independence and his bond with the dominant male, Eko, his father, is becoming increasingly significant

Although still very attached to his mother, he already shows great independence: he spends long periods playing with other group members, engaging in chases, tussles, or mock fights that strengthen his coordination, strength, and understanding of coexistence. Moreover, his bond with the dominant male, Eko, his father, is becoming increasingly significant. Ekan watches, imitates, and learns from his way of leading, a key behavior for future silverback males.

His communicative repertoire is also expanding: facial expressions, gestures, grunts, and various sounds are part of an increasingly sophisticated body language that allows him to interact and cooperate with others.