Zoo Atlanta’s gorillas include numerous old-timers

With 22 gorillas, Zoo Atlanta has one of the largest gorilla collections in North America, but it probably won’t be needing the help of a sanctuary like Gorilla Haven any time soon.

The zoo has an abundance of males, and though housing adult males is a trial for many zoos, Atlanta has had success creating harmonious all-male groups.

Zoo Atlanta’s Dr. Tara Stoinski, head of the national advisory group that looks after gorillas, said the zoo has the country’s largest number of males integrated in social settings, including two all-male groups of three each.

A more significant challenge here is caring for Zoo Atlanta’s booming geriatric gorilla population, which includes patriarch Ozzie, 47; Ivan, 46; Choomba, 47; and Shamba, 49. All are pushing 90 in gorilla years.

Older gorillas are a lot like humans, but grumpier. Here are some examples of their difficulties:

• Joint pain: Most gorillas develop arthritis. All Zoo Atlanta’s senior citizens are on anti-inflammatory treatments, including Celebrex and glucosamine.

• Whippersnappers: Youngsters can be a pain. Ozzie finally ran out Willie B. Jr. after living with him for several years.

• Nutrition: Appetites wane, so older gorillas don’t eat as well. Keepers parboil and mash up some food, and they also provide an occasional can of Ensure. “They like the drinks,” said Charles Horton, curator of primates.

• Temperature: Older gorillas don’t tolerate cool weather as well. Zoo Atlanta’s graybeards don’t go out unless it’s at least 50 degrees and sunny. All get flu shots.

• Weight: The golden years involve a lot of eating, sleeping and sitting around. The result: pudgy gorillas.

• Mobility: Old apes don’t like big steps. Steep climbs caused Willie B. some pain in his final months. Horton admires the ramps at Gorilla Haven and said Atlanta plans to incorporate ramps in its next structure.