Girl grew up next to the Gorilla, and 12 years later they met again in the jungle

Every smell and sound brought back vivid childhood memories. The next few days were spent diligently searching for the gorillas using radio collars. Then, one rainy afternoon, as they walked through the jungle, a movement in the dense vegetation caught their attention.

Hearts beat faster, cameras were ready, and all eyes were on Tansy. The tropical air, filled with the most wonderful scents, surrounded the travelers as they cautiously moved forward. Every sound seemed amplified.

Tansy, leading the group, knew she wouldn’t stop until she reached her goal. Her eyes scanned the surroundings, trying to spot any movement. Hours passed slowly, and the sun shone brightly overhead.

The local guide, a man named Ekenai, signaled everyone to be silent. They entered an area where a group of gorillas, possibly including Jalta and Bims, had recently been seen. Tansy felt a mix of excitement and nervousness.

She knew the gorillas could have changed significantly after years in the jungle. They were no longer young animals playing in the reserve they were now likely leaders of their groups, wild and well-adapted to harsh conditions. Suddenly, Ekenai stopped and pointed to thick bushes from which low sounds and movement could be seen.

Tansy’s heart raced. She held her breath, camera ready. The bushes rustled more intensely, and then an enormous gorilla emerged.

It took Tansy only a few seconds to recognize Bims by his gaze and posture. He stopped and looked directly at her. Their eyes met, and for a moment the world around them seemed to disappear.

Tansy couldn’t tell if Bims recognized her or was just curious about the people. The gorilla took a step forward. Tansy felt the tension among the team members, aware of the potential danger of an adult gorilla…