Beginnings and endings define the cycle of life for all living things on Earth, and this month, Zoo Atlanta experiences both within our historic population of gorillas in The Ford African Rain Forest: the passing of the oldest gorilla at the Zoo, Machi…

and the joy and anticipation of a new pregnancy for Lulu. Both stories weave extensive family ties to some of Zoo Atlanta’s most legendary individuals. “It is part of the life of any zoological organization to both mourn the passing of senior individuals and to look forward to the arrival of new infants. Both are especially resonant in the case of a critically endangered species,” said Gina Ferrie, PhD, Vice President of Collections and Conservation. “Machi was a beloved and extraordinary individual and an irreplaceable part of our story. At the same time, Lulu will bring a new life to the gorilla population – an event that is always worth celebrating.”