Taipei:A male mountain bongo, named Harris, has arrived at Taoyuan International Airport and is set to become a new resident at the Taipei Zoo. The critically endangered animal is expected to make its public debut in about a month after completing quarantine.
According to Focus Taiwan, Harris was donated by the Houston Zoo to aid in the breeding program for the species, as only five female bongos currently reside at the Taipei Zoo. The bongo's journey began at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, with Harris arriving in Taiwan at 1026 p.m. on Tuesday. EVA Air facilitated the transport, with staff welcoming him with a banner reading, "Hello Harris, Welcome to your new home in Taipei!"
Chung Kai-cheng, an official from EVA Air, noted that Harris was accompanied by the Houston Zoo's deputy director and a caretaker during the 18-hour flight to ensure his comfort. In preparation for the journey, the Houston Zoo familiarized Harris with his transport crate to reduce stress.
The arrival ceremony was attended by American Institute in Taiwan Director Raymond Greene, who highlighted the U.S. support for partnerships that enhance bilateral relations. The Taipei Zoo regards the bongo's transfer as a celebration of its upcoming 112th anniversary and the 65th anniversary of the sister-city relationship between Taipei and Houston. This move underscores the zoos' ongoing collaboration in wildlife conservation efforts.
Mountain bongos are native to the montane forests of Kenya in East Africa and are classified as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
