Boston zoo to partner with Verizon to give ipad to each primate

Franklin Park Zoo, Boston's principal zoo, announced Friday that it will be partnering with Verizon to give each primate an ipad pro and a limited data plan.  "We are excited to be a part of this effort to assure that as many primates as possible have access to 21st century resources."  said Jenna Markowitz, outreach coordinator for Digital Promise, the non-profit organization that is facilitating the partnership.  "We really don't know the limits of what primates can do when given the tools to innovate and collaborate the way that they naturally want to."  Franklin Park is home to two Western Lowland Gorillas and 21 Cotton-Top Tamarin, and 61 Ring-tailed Lemurs.  Each will receive one device that will include a suite of apps that have been shown to be effective tools for primates.  Zoo director Dale Madden says that his staff will be closely monitoring the use of the ipads to make sure that the content accessed is appropriate and that the devices are being properly cared for.  "We do anticipate seeing a marked increase in small-dosage dopamine release and a decrease in sleep time and social behavior, which would fall in line with findings among humans and other primates." Madden added.  Among potential goals for the partnership, the Zoo envisions marketing calendars and other merchandise using photos taken by the primates, and connecting primates with their native habitats via facetime.  The program begins this August.

Denise, on of the two Western Lowland Gorillas housed at Franklin Park Zoo.