Disney has shared an update on Bakari, the new silverback leading the gorilla family troop at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Disney has confirmed that Bakari is settling into his new home at the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail. Guests are now catching glimpses of him during their visits to the Africa section of the park. Sightings aren’t guaranteed on any given day, since gorilla visibility depends on the troop’s movements and behavior, but Bakari now joins the rest of the family group as a regular part of the trail experience.
Silverback Bakari Now Visible to Animal Kingdom Guests
IN THIS ARTICLE:
- Disney confirms guests are now spotting Bakari on Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail
- Bakari’s visibility marks the end of his post-arrival acclimation period
- A look back at how Bakari came to lead the troop
Bakari Now Visible on Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail
Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment group shared the update on social media. The post introduced Bakari as the troop’s new leader and noted that he’s settling into his new home. It encouraged guests to keep an eye out for him on the trail.
Recent photos from the trail show Bakari moving through the lush habitat, climbing over rockwork and watching guests from a distance, typical behaviors for a new silverback finding his footing within an established troop. His visibility marks a shift from the acclimation period that followed his arrival. Disney had closed off portions of the habitat during that stretch. That gave Bakari time to adjust to his surroundings before meeting the rest of the family and, eventually, guests.
Story So Far
- Gino, the troop’s silverback for nearly 30 years, passed away in September 2025 at 44 years old, leaving the family troop without a leader.
- Disney announced in June that Bakari, a 21-year-old western lowland gorilla from the Saint Louis Zoo, would join the troop as its new silverback under an AZA Species Survival Plan breeding recommendation.
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