Taipei:A male mountain bongo named Harris arrived at Taoyuan International Airport on Tuesday night and is set to be introduced to the public at the Taipei Zoo in about a month after completing quarantine. The Taipei Zoo announced the arrival as part of its ongoing efforts to breed the critically endangered species.

According to Focus Taiwan, Harris was donated by the Houston Zoo to aid in conservation efforts, as the Taipei Zoo currently houses only five female bongos. The zoo's director, Ju Shiau-fen, greeted Harris at the airport, emphasizing the importance of this addition to their breeding program.

Harris's journey began at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, departing on Monday local time and arriving in Taiwan at 1026 p.m. Tuesday. EVA Air facilitated the 18-hour flight, during which Harris was accompanied by the Houston Zoo's deputy director and a caretaker to ensure his well-being.

EVA Air official Chung Kai-cheng noted that Harris's preparation for travel included familiarizing him with the transport crate to minimize stress. This preparation was part of an effort to make the flight experience as comfortable as possible for the animal.

The arrival ceremony was attended by American Institute in Taiwan Director Raymond Greene, who highlighted the collaboration between the U.S. and Taiwan in strengthening ties through wildlife conservation initiatives. The Taipei Zoo also noted that 2026 marks significant anniversaries, including its 112th year of establishment and the 65th year of the sister-city relationship between Taipei and Houston.

Mountain bongos, native to Kenya's montane forests, are critically endangered, making international collaboration essential for their conservation. The partnership between the Taipei and Houston zoos exemplifies a shared commitment to preserving this species.