Bioparc Fuengirola celebrates today the Ekan's fifth birthday, the first gorilla born in Andalusia and a symbol of the park's reproductive success within the European program for the conservation of endangered species (EEP).
The celebration included a cake made by the care team, made with fruits and vegetables, designed not only as a symbolic gesture but as a environmental enrichment activity that stimulates curiosity, play and social cohesion among group members.
A decisive moment in its development
At five years old, gorillas are in a crucial stage of social learning and developing their group identity. In Ekan's case, the Bioparc Fuengirola team highlights his growing understanding of hierarchy, learning to recognize dominant individuals and act according to the group's social rules.
Although he remains very close to his mother, he already shows great independence: he spends long periods of time playing with the other members of the group, practicing chases, wrestling or pretend fights that strengthen his coordination, strength and understanding of coexistence.
Furthermore, his bond with the dominant male, EkoHis father is becoming increasingly important. Ekan observes him, imitates him, and learns from his leadership style, a key behavior for future silverback males.
Its communicative repertoire also expands: facial expressions, gestures, grunts, and various sounds are part of an increasingly sophisticated body language that allows it to interact and cooperate with others.
Learning through play: a case of positive training
The Bioparc Fuengirola team has been developing programs for years cognitive training and enrichment aimed at improving the physical and emotional well-being of animals.
As Maria Jose Roldan, primate specialist caregiver: “In the daily care of animals, we must highlight the importance of practices such as enrichment and training, which provide them with tools that promote their proper physical and mental state, and therefore their well-being.”
Ekan's case has been particularly noteworthy. His curiosity and attentiveness during his father's training prompted his caregivers to begin his own training program in 2024, earlier than the usual age. From March of that year, he began responding to simple commands, and in December, a clinical program tailored to his behavior and abilities was launched.
Her high motivation and enthusiasm for play have allowed for remarkable progress, creating a strong bond of trust with her caregiver and demonstrating that Learning and well-being can go hand in hand.
A symbol of hope for its species
The birth of Ekan in 2020 marked a historic milestone: he was the first gorilla born in Andalusia. Five years later, his development reflects Bioparc Fuengirola's commitment to education, research and conservation of the western lowland gorilla (Gorilla gorilla gorilla), a species listed as “Critically Endangered” by the IUCN.
With this celebration, Bioparc Fuengirola not only celebrates Ekan's life, but also reaffirms its mission to protect biodiversity and raise public awareness about the importance of preserving great apes and their natural habitats.
About Bioparc Fuengirola
Bioparc Fuengirola is an internationally renowned park dedicated to the care, conservation, and breeding of endangered species. It faithfully recreates natural habitats to promote animal welfare and environmental education. It participates in European conservation programs (EEP and ESB) and actively engages in research and awareness projects focused on tropical wildlife.
