The story of Ribancok and his relationships with the female gorillas at Taronga Zoo is a testament to the complex social behaviors of animals in captivity. As we continue to learn more about the lives of zoo animals, we are reminded of the importance of promoting healthy relationships and providing a suitable environment for these incredible creatures.
Many zoo animals form long-term, deep-seated bonds that zookeepers often describe in terms of companionship and "romance": Point Defiance Zoo , these two are described as longtime companions.