MIAMI — Two western lowland gorillas at Zoo Miami, silverback brothers “Barney” and “Shango,” have undergone medical evaluations and been cleared for relocation to Brookfield Zoo Chicago later this month.

Barney, 31, and Shango, 36, received a series of veterinary exams Friday, including bloodwork, dental cleanings, radiographs, cardiac ultrasounds and vaccinations. The procedures were led by Zoo Miami veterinarians Dr. Marisa Bezjian and Dr. Nicholas Buscaglia, with support from Chief of Animal Health Dr. Gwen Myers and cardiologist Dr. Ken Zide and his team. Both gorillas recovered well and remain in good health.

The move will make Barney and Shango the first-ever bachelor troop displayed at Brookfield Zoo’s James and Elizabeth Bramsen Tropical Forest. Bachelor groups, consisting of male gorillas without family troops, are a natural part of gorilla social development and play a vital role in species well-being.

The transfer supports the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan and comes ahead of renovations to Zoo Miami’s great ape habitat to meet new Florida regulations. Zoo officials said this marks the first time in over 40 years that Zoo Miami will not have gorillas on site. Visitors are encouraged to see the gorillas before their departure.

Photo by Ron Magill/Zoo Miami