Biography of Harambe

Born on May 27, 1999, at Gladys Porter Zoo in Texas, Harambe was a gentle western lowland gorilla who moved to Cincinnati Zoo in 2014 to join a breeding program aimed at helping his critically endangered species. With his striking silverback coat and thoughtful eyes, he quickly became a beloved resident, captivating visitors with his playful curiosity and calm strength. On May 28, 2016, an unforeseen incident led to the difficult decision to ensure a child’s safety, and Harambe passed that day. His memory sparked worldwide conversations about wildlife conservation, captive animal welfare, and our shared responsibility to protect gorillas in the wild. Harambe’s legacy lives on through increased awareness, donations to conservation efforts, and the gentle reminder that every gorilla is an irreplaceable thread in the web of life.