Calling all Bens...
26/07/2017
Lar Gibbons are an endangered species of ape from the rain forests of South-east Asia, where they are under severe threat from habitat loss due to the destruction of forests. These primates do very well in captivity where they can be housed in small pair-based family groups exactly as they would live in the wild. Many babies have been born and reared at Hamerton Zoo Park. Our oldest male is called 'Ben' and came to Hamerton in 1991 following the closure of Guernsey Zoo. He had also lived in Paignton before being moved to Guernsey; but will stay at Hamerton where he now lives with his youngest daughter 'Ash'.
'Ben' is 60 years old this summer. In the wild Lar Gibbons live to around 25 and in in zoos to around 40. 'Ben' is the oldest ever recorded. To celebrate his birthday, on 'Primate Day' in August we are offering free entry to the Park for ALL Human 'Bens' who are also 60 years old. More news can be found on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram; and you will need to show proof of your name and that you are as old as our 'Ben'!