NOW in their third week in the Gabon, the seven Howletts gorillas are gradually acquiring a taste for their new jungle diet.

Head gorilla keeper Colin Angus is still supplementing their meals with milk, bananas and papayas.

"But their range of diet is growing as they try different things.

"Kido definitely looks like he is putting on weight," he said.

Two of the gorillas have been under close scrutiny this week. Djalta had a stomach upset for a couple of days perhaps from eating something that did not agree with him but seems all right now.

Ama has been given anti-inflammatory drugs to try to bring down swelling in her fingers which is preventing her from using her hands properly.

Mr Angus said: "We can't see any visible wounds so it could be caused by insect bites. She is finding it hard to move through the forest and is having to walk on her wrists instead of her knuckles."

Otherwise the gorillas are getting used to life in the forest. Even Kwibi, who had been finding it hard to settle into his new home, has been far more relaxed this week.

"I am happy with their progress. They have come on quite well," said Mr Angus.