Our Crew
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Bono
- Arrived at the Zoo in January 2020 from Sequoia Park Zoo, where he lived since 1984
- Is 37 years old, and considered elderly like Jasmine
- Parents are named Sonny and Cher, Bono is pronunced BOH-no
- Shared exhibit and life together with female gibbon Jo-leen at Sequoia Park for 35 years
Jasmine
- Arrived at the Zoo on October 23, 1979
- Is an extremely long-lived gibbon at age 45, and has diabetes that has been managed for the past six years, but is in good health for her age
- Has tan fur, but coloration in this species is determined by genetics and not sex
- Was longtime mate to Gulliver, who passed away in July 2016 just days before his 40th birthday
- Successfully raised five offspring with Gulliver during nearly 30 years together, and outlived all but two of them: Riley, born in 2000, currently at Indianapolis Zoo, and Elliot, born in 2002, who is at Hogle Zoo (Salt Lake City). The pair also has many “grandchildren,” and five “great-grandchildren.”
Conservation Status
Gibbons are endangered according to the IUCN. Though they are nationally protected in Asian tropical rainforests throughout the countries in their range, inadequate management and lack of protection from poachers are the main threats to their survival.
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Species Survival Plans
The Santa Barbara Zoo is one of the 220+ accredited zoos and aquariums that participate in Species Survival Plans (SSP), a cooperatively managed program of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). More than 200 different species are managed through SSPs, aimed at maintaining genetic diversity within AZA populations, sustaining these populations, and guarding against extinction.
Wildlife Experiences
Meet the Animals
Have you always wanted to get just a little bit closer to the animals at the Santa Barbara Zoo? Well, you can! Take a look at our animal encounters, and choose the best option for you and/or your family.