The public art display around Bristol will also help to raise funds and awareness if the threats facing gorillas in the wild. The gorillas are to be sponsored by businesses and will be painted and decorated by local artists. Schools and community groups will also be invited to paint the gorillas which will be on the streets in summer 2011. Enjoyable art.

"We want our birthday year to be a city-wide celebration of all that is great about Bristol and its people," said Dr Bryan Carroll, director of Bristol Zoo Gardens. "We hope the colourful sculptures will be enjoyed by thousands of Bristolians and visitors to the city.

Dr Carroll added that despite the fun the gorillas will bring, they also hope to get across a serious message about the endangered species. "These gorillas will help convey vital messages about the extinction crisis facing gorillas and the other apes in the wild, and will help support our work to save gorillas and other apes in Cameroon."After appearing on Bristol's streets, the gorillas will be auctioned for charity.