mous and form strong bonds with their companions. Japan’s male companion, Sandy, unfortunately, passed away in 2019. For many years, the pair sang their own special song and raised two babies together, Emma and Mycah. Until recently, Japan was alone, but that changed when Bono was welcomed to the Honolulu Zoo family. Bono is the new male gibbon acquired from the Santa Barbara Zoo on April 30th. Bono was born on October 18th, 1982, making him 42 years old! He is described as shy and gentle. Over his lifetime, he has shared his days with two other female companions, so meeting a new partner is not entirely new for him. Despite this, staff took all necessary precautions before introducing the two. bons know which trees are already taken. Sadly, the Southeast Asian forests are hearing less and less of these haunting tunes. The white-handed gibbons are an endangered species, facing serious threats from deforestation and the illegal pet trade. By protecting their habitats and learning about them, we can help ensure these amazing “singers of the forest” continue to thrive for generations to come. Meet the Gibbons The female gibbon, Japan, has been with the Honolulu Zoo since 1982. She was rescued from animal trafficking at 5 years old. Keepers describe her as sweet and observant. Not only is she always glad to see the staff, but also the other animals. White-handed gibbons are monoga150 HAWAII PARENT November/December 2025 Curious and confident, Bono checks out his new surroundings. “Gibbons are known for their long beautiful songs that echo through the forest”
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