Rockhampton Zoo's newest chimpanzee, Sile, is settling in well with her new troop after arriving from Sydney Zoo in December.
Councillor for Parks, Sport and Public Spaces Cherie Rutherford said the 18-year-old female chimpanzee has seamlessly integrated into her new environment.
"We're thrilled to announce that the transition for Sile has gone smoothly and the keepers could not be happier with how quickly she has settled in," Cr Rutherford said.
"Sile met the troop's alpha, Alon first and then was introduced to the rest of the group one by one.
"Sile was accepted into the troop within just two days and has quickly become confident in her new surroundings and has been exploring everything in her new home.
"She is an absolute sweetheart – she has a very calm personality and seems to take everything in her stride.
"If you didn't know she was new, you'd believe she had been a member of this troop for years."
Rockhampton Zoo's Exotic Mammals Team Leader Blair Chapman said they are continuing to see the troop's bond develop and flourish.
"The troop currently spend most of their time together grooming, playing and developing their bonds," Mr Chapman said.
"A key behaviour we've observed is 'food peering' – which is where one chimpanzee gets really close to another chimpanzee eating, and stares at them.
"This act is a display of submission and respect – as the peering chimpanzee isn't taking the food away but is respectfully waiting in hopes that the food might be shared.
"We have seen Sile food peer at Jerry, and Capri food peer at Sile, which is a really good sign of how well they are respecting one another and each other's positions.
"We have also seen some really strong bonds forming between troop members separately.
"A particularly touching moment was when little Gandali, who lost his adoptive mother, Samantha last year, immediately ran up to Sile and embraced her upon meeting and the two sat cuddling for quite a while.
"One of the strongest bonds we have seen form would be with Alon – who is very happy to be near Sile as much as possible, and you often see him following her everywhere."
Zoo Director Liz Bellward said Sile's successful integration into the troop has also enabled the zoo to accelerate upgrades to the chimpanzee enclosure, bringing them forward ahead of schedule.
"The first stage of upgrades is underway and includes the removal of the ironbark logs and installation of a new platform by the pond," Ms Bellward said.
"This will give the group an alternative resting and grooming area.
"There will be a new climbing structure with interchangeable platforms, hammocks and enrichment items as well as new free-standing trees with lots of perching opportunities – designed and placed to encourage natural movement of the chimpanzees through the exhibit."
Sydney Zoo has also reported positive outcomes for the integration of Leakey and Mzuri, who were transferred from Rockhampton Zoo to their troop of eight in November.
"The recent relocation of chimpanzees Leakey and Mzuri to Sydney Zoo has been a resounding success," Sydney Zoo's Primate and Animal Welfare Manager Lou Grossfeldt said.
"Both chimps are settling in well, marking an exciting new chapter for the zoo.
"Chimpanzees are known for their complex social structures, so the integration process is being approached with care to ensure a smooth transition into their new troop.
"Sydney Zoo is committed to supporting their well-being and fostering a cohesive social environment."
Rockhampton Zoo is open from 9am until 4.15pm daily, and entry is free.
