Baby gorilla

Venture deep into the Congo and explore the misty trails of the African jungle.

Congo Expedition region shield and gorilla

Area Features


Begin your expedition in the Congo by exploring the colobus monkeys and birds that call it home. Continue your trek and spot a leopard sleeping on a tree branch. Then, venture along the trail where you will encounter troops of gorillas and mandrills. As you come to the end of the path, discover the only living relative of the giraffe, the okapi, as it sticks out its 16-inch tongue to snack on delicious leaves.

The bonobos' habitat is getting a makeover! During that time, they'll be living in a behind-the-scenes habitat not viewable to the public until 2024. 

African grey parrot
That's Quite a "Feet"
African grey parrots have toes that point backwards and forwards, giving them a lot of dexterity. They also tend to be right-footed or left-footed when handling food! Check them out in the Congo Aviary.
Aldabra tortoise walking in grass
A (Quarter) Ton of Fun
Aldabra tortoises can weigh between 400-600 pounds as adults. Visit them in the summer as you stroll towards Congo Expedition! Hint: They're near the historic carousel.
baby gorilla in mother's arms
It's a Girl!
Have you seen the newest addition to the gorilla family? Born in July 2023, the youngest of the troop may be viewable indoors or outdoors with her mother, Sully, by her side.

Making History: Mac and Mo Turn 40

Macombo II (Mac) and his twin brother, Mosuba (Mo), made history in 1983 as the first gorilla twins born in the Western Hemisphere.  Read the story that captured hearts around the world.

A Tale of Twin Gorillas

Great Ape Heart Project

Six great apes with progressive heart disease – including, for the first time anywhere, two bonobos – have been successfully implanted with insertable cardiac monitors (ICMs) at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium to help extend their lives.

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