Sunset Zoo is proud to share that Zoo Director Dr. Kaleigh Reyes published a new scientific research article in Folia Primatologica last month.
The article, “Novel investigation of western lowland gorilla sleep architecture,” is the first known documentation of gorilla sleep behavior and sleep architecture. This research offers a new contribution to the scientific understanding of great ape behavior and cognition, including insights that may help researchers better understand human sleep and behavior.
Dr. Reyes served as the first author and lead investigator on the project. The study was made possible through collaboration with the Comparative Cognition Laboratory at the University of Neuchâtel in Switzerland, the gorilla care team at Basel Zoo in Switzerland, and the Sleep and Evolution Lab at the University of Toronto in Canada.
This publication reflects Sunset Zoo’s commitment to science, animal welfare, and professional excellence. It also highlights how the Zoo’s leadership is actively contributing to contemporary research that may support future studies and help inform standards of care for great apes among Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) professionals.
For the City of Manhattan and the Manhattan Parks and Recreation Department, this achievement reflects the values of innovation and service by helping develop knowledge that may benefit animal welfare and the future of great ape care.
Residents and supporters can view the article abstract online here:
https://brill.com/view/journals/ijfp/aop/article-10.1163-14219980-bja10086/article-10.1163-14219980-bja10086.xml
Article citation:
Reyes, K. R., Teichroeb, J. A., Schillaci, M. A., Wilson, V. A., Zuberbühler, K., & Samson, D. R. (2026). Novel investigation of western lowland gorilla sleep architecture. Folia Primatologica (Advanced Articles 2026). https://doi.org/10.1163/14219980-bja10086
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About Sunset Zoo
Home to more than 150 amazing animals, Manhattan’s Sunset Zoo offers a close-up view of some of nature’s most fascinating wonders, including hyenas, cheetahs, flamingos, and a jumping and hooting array of primates found throughout the 26-acre park. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) since 1989, Sunset Zoo is committed to upholding the highest standards of animal care and providing a fun, safe, and educational family experience. More about the AZA can be found here.
Sunset Zoo is open 360 days a year. Summer hours: 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. daily. The Zoo is located at 2333 Oak Street. The Zoo is tucked inside the residential area near Manhattan High School’s West Campus.
Learn more by visiting www.sunsetzoo.com, calling 785-587-2737, or following the Zoo on social media.
