Update on Barbie, the orphan gorilla

Barbie (c) Reggie Hathaway

Do you remember Barbie, the little orphaned gorilla in Cameroon, rescued after being shot by poachers, in 2024? She was just a baby, around 18 months old, when her family were likely killed by illegal bushmeat hunters. 

Barbie and Luci (c) Reggie Hathaway

Fortunately, Barbie was confiscated by Cameroon’s Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife and taken to Ape Action Africa’s sanctuary in Mefou National Park – home to Born Free’s Gorilla Family. Thanks to our long-term colleagues’ expert care, Barbie made amazing progress.

She gradually recovered from her terrible injuries, and was then introduced to her new adopted gorilla family, including surrogate mum Luci – an older gorilla who was herself orphaned as an infant. But what happened next? Reggie Hathaway from Ape Action Africa brings us the latest news.

“Young Barbie continues to go from strength to strength, and life is good for her as the youngest member of her adopted family. Surrounded by other gorillas, who are fiercely protective of her, Barbie enjoys a wonderfully secure position within the group. Her confidence grows every day, and it is remarkable to think back to the small, timid female who first arrived, compared to the boisterous girl she is today.

Barbie loves her bananas! (c) Reggie Hathaway

“One of the most exciting developments has been watching Barbie begin to find her independence. She is gradually spending more time away from Luci, her surrogate mother, venturing out to explore and play with other members of the family. Luci, of course, is never far away, keeping a close and watchful eye as Barbie has also discovered a new passion for climbing trees – something she now enjoys on a daily basis.

“Barbie and another youngster, Nouji, have been a joy to observe recently, spending quality time together and engaging in all manner of playful behaviour. Each one learns from the other in the most natural way.

“But, if there is one thing everyone in the group has learned about Barbie, it is to never touch her bananas. She has a very particular love of them and is not afraid to make her feelings known if anyone dares to try their luck and pinch one!”