Famed primatologist Jane Goodall to visit Prague, baptize baby gorilla

Renowned primatologist and conservationist Dr. Jane Goodall is set to grace Prague Zoo with her presence for the third time later this week, bringing a wave of excitement and anticipation among wildlife enthusiasts in the Czech capital.

On Friday, May 10th, from 5:00 p.m., Dr. Goodall will deliver a lecture at the auditorium of the Czech University of Life Sciences Prague. On Saturday, May 11, from 11:00 a.m., she will introduce the Czech translation of her latest book, Pangolina, and oversee a baptism ceremony for the younger of two baby gorillas at Prague Zoo.

Goodall, who recently celebrated her 90th birthday, is best known for her groundbreaking work with chimpanzees in Tanzania's Gombe Stream National Park. Her pioneering research on the social and familial behavior of these primates revolutionized our understanding of their intelligence, emotions, and relationships, challenging long-held scientific beliefs.

Throughout her distinguished career, Dr. Goodall has been a tireless advocate for wildlife conservation and environmental protection, founding the Jane Goodall Institute and Roots & Shoots program to empower and inspire the next generation of conservation leaders. She has been the subject of numerous documentaries, including 2017's Jane, now streaming on Disney+.

During her visit to Prague, Dr. Goodall will present the Czech translation of her new book Pangolina, a children's story that revolves around the pangolin, which is critically endangered by illegal trafficking. Last year, Prague Zoo became the first zoo in Europe to successfully breed a pangolin.

Goodall will also officiate the baptism of one of the zoo's newest inhabitants, who was born to gorilla Kijivu in mid-April. The young female is the zoo's second baby gorilla of 2024 following the birth of sister Mobi in January. The two baby gorillas are currently under the care of Mobi's mother Duni, who recently demonstrated remarkable maternal instincts by cradling both infants simultaneously.

The lecture by Dr. Goodall at the Czech University of Life Sciences Prague on Friday is free to attend, but capacity is limited to about 500 seats, which will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

The lecture will be conducted in English, with simultaneous Czech translation available for about 100 guests through provided headphones. The event will be live-streamed on Facebook through the official Prague Zoo account and later uploaded to YouTube for those unable to attend in person.