The Official Houston Zoo Blog

I sat down with the here-to-fore unknown Houston Zoo gorilla that is quickly achieving celebrity status around town and asked him all the questions inquiring minds might want to know.

R: You’ve been spotted around the Zoo — mostly trying to get into our cafes.  Then you’ve been seen trying to get into restaurants around town. And your man bag appears to be stuffed to the gills with bananas… It seems like food is really important to you.

G: You have no idea what a foodie I am!

R: So you must be a fan of the Zoo’s big food fest — Feast With The Beasts – coming up on November 6th.

G: Oh yes. And I know how popular it is… I learned that the hard way. Last year I waited too long to get my tickets and they sold out! My girlfriend was tres upset.  She likes it because it’s one of the few times we can be at the zoo where it’s 100% grown ups.

R: How did that happen if you’re such a fan of this fabulous annual Zoo party?

G: Well, I do banana tricks in my spare time.  It’s easy to end up eating them, and when I’m full… I get sleepy… and well, you know what they say…

R: What do they say?

G: He who snoozes loses.

R: Well time is of the essence then. You know November 6th is only 2 1/2 weeks away.  I supposed you’re not going to make that same mistake again…

G: No way! It’s already done. I bought my tickets online at www.Houstonzoo.org/Feast

What’s more, I’ve decided to make it my mission to roam the city and remind people. I mean, think about it — Amazing food, live music, dancing, keeper chats, animal experiences, scrumptious libations — all going on in one of the most the romantic and exotic settings in Houston.  This party is not to be missed.

R: I know!  My friends rave at what a good date night it is… especially the ones with kids…

G: Quite a bargain when you consider that there’s over 50 restaurants participating and this year, my favorite band is playing: BIG BAD VOODOO DADDY. I really encourage people to join me, so they don’t have to go to the lengths I have. I mean,  running all over town in this fur is HOT.

R: What dedication! 

At that, the Gorilla showed me how to open a banana upside down  instead of peeling it. As he wolfed it down, I had to ask:

R: Are you a real Gorilla?

G: That’s getting a little personal, don’t you think?

R: Well, at least tell us your name then!

But he didn’t answer… An ape with a mission, he was off in a flash, compelled to go out and spread the word.

Turns out this tall, dark and hairy guy is Feast’s number one fan, a champion of our cause. He cannot remain anonymous!  It’s just not right!

Can you help us give him a name?  Think: strong, committed, good hearted, hungry, and hairy.  Wait…Harry? Harry!  That’s my official submission. What’s yours?

Please leave your entry in the comment area.

The winner will be named Thursday, October 29th, in a follow-up blog  and will be awarded FREE tickets for two to — you guessed it –Feast with the Beasts!!! Just post a comment below with what you think his name should be and you’ll be entered to win. Good luck!

Written by Rochelle Joseph. View Rochelle’s personal animal blog @www.naturegirrrl.blogspot.com

**Update** The winner has been announced here.