Gorilla
Gorillas are ground-dwelling, predominantly herbivorous apes that inhabit the forests of central Sub-Saharan Africa. They are classified in the genus Gorilla which is divided into two species: the eastern gorillas and the western gorillas (both critically endangered), and either four or five subspecies. They are the largest living primates. The DNA of gorillas is highly similar to that of humans, from 95 to 99% depending on what is included, and they are the next closest living relatives to humans after the species of "Pan"; the chimpanzees and bonobos.
Oregon Zoo
Currently anchored by the Zoo's 1959 primate building, the primate forest is undergoing substantial renovation that includes demolition of most of the old primate building. The current primate exhibit features chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes). Following renovation, the primate exhibit will include Red Ape Reserve, a 2010 indoor/outdoor exhibit housing orangutans and white cheeked gibbons, and a new, larger chimpanzee habitat that will replace the primate building.The Oregon Zoo participates in Species Survival Plans for 63 endangered/threatened species, among which are successful breeding programs for endangered Asian elephants, and in recent times, African lions. (The latter was under recommendation by the AZA).