Gorilla delivery from DHL

In addition to the animals, which had a combined weight of 620 kg, 1200 kg of food and vets' equipment accompanied them on their journey home to the wild.

To accommodate the gorillas' transport schedule, DHL took two different aircraft out of commission and temporarily reconfigured its global network to ensure they could be delivered in as tight a timeframe as possible.

Returning them home

Western lowland gorillas are classed as a critically endangered species and this is the first attempt at returning an entire family to its natural habitat. The Aspinall Foundation's 'Back to the Wild' initiative is part of its ongoing commitment to restock the wild with endangered and critically endangered species, following its uniquely successful programmes of captive breeding at its Kent wildlife parks.

Phil Couchman, CEO of DHL Express UK & Ireland commented, "It's no mean feat moving a family of nine gorillas across the world. This is an extremely important cause and a great logistical undertaking - our priority throughout the operation has been the safety and well being of the animals.

"In working closely with the foundation, a world-leading conservation charity, to prepare for the move, we ensured the smoothest possible journey for the gorillas.

Charles Brewer, MD for DHL Express Sub-Saharan Africa, said, "Our dedicated 'special delivery' team, which includes staff from across the operation, from aircraft engineers to cargo handlers, security teams, pilots and drivers, have done an excellent job of ensuring the success of this project. We're delighted to have been of assistance to the gorilla family and we hope they enjoy their new home."

Damian Aspinall, pioneering conservationist and chairman of The Aspinall Foundation, said, "The foundation's 'Back To The Wild' initiative is unique and comprises one of the most ambitious reintroductions of the critically endangered species into the wild undertaken anywhere in the world. We are delighted that DHL has so generously come on board as partners in this important and exciting repatriation project."