These talks give an exclusive opportunity to hear from experts who will delve into different aspects of our work at Bristol Zoological Society.
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Alan Toyne worked at Bristol Zoological Society for 13 years and was a Senior Keeper, working closely with our mammal species at Bristol Zoo Gardens including our beloved gorilla troop.
He has recently written a book about his amazing experiences; 'Gorillas in Our Midst', giving an extraordinary insight into the life of a gorilla keeper.
Join us for a reading of the book by Alan Toyne, followed by the chance to ask questions and hear stories about his time at Bristol Zoo.
This talk will start at 2pm with plenty of time for questions at the end, with a finishing time of 3.30pm. Refreshments will be available.
Suitable for ages 10+
Step into the fascinating world of Bristol Zoo with Alan Toyne, a dedicated zookeeper and primate expert whose extraordinary story of hand-rearing two baby gorillas will warm your heart
When Afia, a newborn western lowland gorilla, is rejected by her mother Kera after a difficult birth, her human keepers must start the challenging – but rewarding – experience of hand-rearing her themselves. Teaching her the ropes of life in the Gorilla House at Bristol Zoo is tricky enough. But providing 24/7 care for a baby gorilla means Alan must hand-rear Afia in his own home too, an experience that forges a remarkable emotional bond between the two of them over the course of many sleepless nights.
Soon a second baby gorilla, Hasani, is facing rejection from his mother, and Alan and his colleagues must embark on a daring mission to train Kera – now recovered but socially isolated – to become Hasani's surrogate mother. Can she learn to protect and love Hasani as her own, in a way she couldn't for Afia? Can she find her maternal instincts and claim a place within the troop at last?
With a vibrant cast of characters – from the volatile silverback Jock to the mysterious Sal and the stately Romi – Gorillas in Our Midst offers a unique glimpse into the intricate world of primate social dynamics, in all their complicated, human-like glory. More than just a behind-the-scenes look at zoo life, this thought-provoking and heart-warming memoir is a testament to the enduring bonds between humans and animals, and to the power of resilience and compassion.
Gorillas in Our Midst is published by Summersdale.
Bear Wood Event Space (located at the end of the Bear Wood walkway, please allow 20 minutes to walk to the classroom from arrival at admissions).
Members and Company Members £10
Non members £15
Please book your place by clicking the link below.
