As part of a unique nature conservation initiative, in cooperation with The Aspinall Foundation, the logistics company DHL transported a family of nine silverback gorillas from the Port Lympne Wild Animal Park in Kent to the Batéké Plateau National Park in Gabon.
The gorillas traveled 9,000 kilometers. First from the UK to Brussels, and then by a specially equipped Boeing 767 to Lagos, Nigeria, from where they traveled to Franceville, Gabon. The final stage of the journey to the national park was completed by helicopter, in cooperation with the Gabonese authorities.
In addition to the animals, which weigh a total of 620 kg, at least 1,200 kg of food and veterinary equipment traveled to their new home in the wild. To accommodate the gorillas’ travel schedule, DHL diverted two different aircraft from their regular flight schedules and temporarily adjusted its global transport network to ensure the animals were transported in the shortest possible time.
Western lowland gorillas are classified as a critically endangered species, and this is the first attempt in history to return an entire family to their natural habitat. The Aspinall Foundation’s “Back to the Wild” initiative is part of ongoing efforts to return endangered and critically endangered species to the wild, which is a consequence of exceptionally successful captive breeding programs in places like the wildlife park in Kent.
– Transporting a family of nine gorillas halfway across the world is quite a feat. It is an exceptionally important matter and a huge logistical undertaking for DHL – our priority in this project was the safety and well-being of the animals – said Phil Couchman, CEO of DHL Express UK & Ireland. – Working closely with The Aspinall Foundation, a world-leading wildlife conservation charity, and preparing for the order, we ensured the gorillas had the gentlest journey possible. Our designated “special shipments team,” consisting of employees from all DHL departments, from flight engineers to transporters, security guards, pilots, and drivers, did a great job and ensured the success of this project. We are extremely happy that we could help the gorilla family and we hope they will enjoy their new home.
– The Foundation’s “Back To The Wild” initiative is unique and involves by far the most ambitious reintroduction program for critically endangered species ever carried out in the world. We are happy that DHL has so generously joined us as a partner in this important and exciting project to release the gorillas into the wild – said Damian Aspinall, Chairman of The Aspinall Foundation.