Gentle matriarch remembered as team supports males through social shift
Adelaide Zoo has said goodbye to one of its most iconic residents, Niari the Mandrill, who was humanely euthanised this week following age-related health complications.
At 29 years old, Niari had reached the end of her natural life, with veterinary assessments confirming irreversible spinal degeneration that significantly impacted her comfort and quality of life.
Her passing marks a poignant moment for Adelaide Zoo’s Mandrill program, with keepers reflecting on her gentle presence, ambassadorial impact, and the important social role she played in the group.
“Niari called Adelaide Zoo home her entire life,” says James Bibby, Team Supervisor of Primates. “At nearly thirty years old she was one of the oldest female Mandrills in human care and lived a fulfilling life. She not only managed her own social group with grace, but also helped educate and inspire thousands of visitors about the importance of wildlife conservation.”
Mandrills are listed as vulnerable in the wild and are found across west-central Africa. Through her life at Adelaide Zoo, Niari successfully raised several offspring and contributed to broader awareness of her species.
“Whilst Niari’s passing is one felt by all, she should be remembered with great pride and joy for the successful and enriched life she led at the zoo,” says Bibby. “Her care was second-to-none, thanks to the unwavering dedication of our keepers past and present. That same care now continues for her companions, Tabah and Jumoke.”
With Niari gone, Adelaide Zoo’s two remaining adult males – Tabah, aged 20, and Jumoke, aged 8 – are adjusting to life as a bachelor pair. Mandrills are naturally social primates, and changes in group structure can prompt behavioural shifts. The team is closely monitoring the duo’s relationship and are encouraged by recent observations.
“So far, the boys are doing well,” says Chad Crittle, Acting Director at Adelaide Zoo. “Jumoke has stepped into a more dominant role, and Tabah seems to have accepted a lower ranking. They’re respecting each other’s space, which is a positive sign, and we’ll continue supporting them as they settle into this new dynamic.”
Keepers are making regular assessments, enhancing their habitat, and ensuring both Mandrills are physically and mentally supported through the change.
“These are complex animals, and this is a sensitive time,” says Crittle. “But our commitment to their wellbeing is unwavering – every decision we make is guided by what’s best for them.”
