article_detail

The newest arrival at Bioparc Fuengirola is already winning hearts and now he finally has a name. The western lowland gorilla born at the Málaga park on Saturday November 29 has been officially named Ernie, following a public vote that drew strong interest and participation.

 

When voting closed, Ernie emerged as the clear favourite, taking 44 percent of the votes. The other suggested names, Goodall and Kasai, followed with 31 percent and 24 percent respectively. But it was Ernie that struck a chord, and for good reason.

 

The name pays tribute to Ernest, one of the most iconic gorillas in Bioparc Fuengirola’s history. Ernest was part of the park from its early days and became a true symbol of the centre. He died in 2017 at the age of 45 from natural causes, leaving a lasting impression on staff and visitors alike. Choosing Ernie, the park says, is a way of keeping that legacy alive while reinforcing its long-term commitment to conservation.

 

For the team at the park, Ernie’s first weeks have been especially moving. His mother, Wefa, has surprised keepers with how naturally she has taken to motherhood. Staff describe her as an “exemplary mother”, while the rest of the group has shown calm, respectful behaviour around the newborn.

 

Ernie’s arrival has also gently shifted the group’s daily rhythm. Activity patterns have adapted to the presence of the infant, and keepers say the birth has strengthened social and family bonds within the troop, offering a glimpse into the complex social structure of these great apes.

 

Beyond the feel-good story, there is a serious message at its heart. The western lowland gorilla is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Wild populations continue to decline due to habitat loss, poaching, disease and conflict with humans.

 

That is why births like Ernie’s matter. Bioparc Fuengirola plays an active role in international conservation programmes designed to protect the species and raise awareness of the fragile ecosystems they depend on.

 

As the park itself put it, Ernie is “a little great victory for biodiversity”. His story is only just beginning, but for many, it already feels like a hopeful one.

 

 

Images: Bioparc/Facebook