Silverback gorilla Paul Donn joins troop at San Diego Zoo Safari Park
ESCONDIDO, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) -- A male silverback gorilla has joined the troop at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Escondido.
Paul Donn is the first silverback at the safari park since the passing of 52-year-old Winston last year. At the time, Winston was one of the oldest male gorillas in captivity in the world, according to the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance.
In January 2021, Winston and his troop were the first known great apes in the world to be diagnosed with COVID-19.
Paul Donn's arrival marks his return to the troop he was raised in, the wildlife alliance said in a news release. He was one of two males that Winston had "allowed into" his troop, a move often uncharacteristic for silverbacks.
A silverback is an adult male recognized by the gray hair on his back. In a troop of gorillas, the silverback is the leader who is responsible for decision-making and the family's safety.
Paul Donn joined the safari park with Jessica, a 44-year-old female gorilla who has been living with him.
Paul Donn, the silverback, and Jessica at San Diego Zoo Safari Park. (Emily Senninger/San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance) 
Paul Donn, the silverback, and Jessica at San Diego Zoo Safari Park. (Emily Senninger/San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance) 
Paul Donn, the silverback, and Jessica at San Diego Zoo Safari Park. (Emily Senninger/San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance)
Guests can visit Paul Donn and Jessica, along with the rest of the troop, at the Gorilla Forest exhibit at the safari park.
