Meet Georgie, a white-handed gibbon who has become quite the superstar at Zoo Knoxville in Tennessee. Georgie arrived at the zoo when he was just two years old, and he has been captivating visitors ever since. With his calls echoing throughout the zoo, Georgie loves to swing and show off his playful nature, according to Sydney McCart, the lead keeper at Asian Trek.
Describing Georgie as an attention seeker, McCart shared that he enjoys walking and being the center of attention. Regardless of the weather, Georgie will be out and about if there are people to impress. However, it’s important to remember that Georgie is still a wild animal, and Zoo Knoxville ensures that he has sufficient space to move around safely in his exhibit.
As pointed out by McCart, gibbons like Georgie are classified as class one animals in Tennessee due to their potential threat to human safety. Therefore, visitors are advised against approaching, touching or interacting closely with Georgie.
This Thursday, October 5, Georgie will be celebrating his 20th birthday, and the zoo has big plans to commemorate the occasion. Additional toys, enrichment activities, and training demonstrations will be available for guests to enjoy, enhancing their understanding of Georgie’s life and behavior.
Gibbons typically live up to around 45 years of age, which means Georgie is already well into his middle years. Looking ahead, Zoo Knoxville hopes that Georgie will have the opportunity to mate with another gibbon named Mellie. However, as McCart emphasized, the decision ultimately rests with Georgie and Mellie, and the zoo can only act as their protector and facilitator.
To explore more captivating animals featured on Wild Inside, click here. For further information on Zoo Knoxville and the incredible Georgie, click here.
FAQ:
Q: Can I touch or approach Georgie while visiting Zoo Knoxville?
A: No, Georgie is considered a class one animal in Tennessee, and it is important to maintain a safe distance to ensure human security.
Q: How long do gibbons typically live?
A: Gibbons have a lifespan of about 45 years.
Q: Will Georgie have the opportunity to mate?
A: The zoo hopes that Georgie and Mellie, another gibbon at Zoo Knoxville, will eventually reproduce, but the decision lies with them.
Q: What can I expect during Georgie’s 20th birthday celebration?
A: The zoo has lined up additional toys, enrichment activities, and training demonstrations for guests to enjoy during Georgie’s birthday celebration.
