As of 2023, western lowland gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) are housed at 49 zoos accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Responsible population management and sustainability often necessitate transferring individuals between these zoos. However, this process is extensive and can include pre-shipment examinations, environmental changes, administration of sedatives, and post-arrival quarantine periods—all before actually being introduced to a new habitat, new caretakers, and potentially new social group members. We are currently partnering with six other zoos to monitor ten gorillas scheduled for transfers. In collaboration with the Great Ape Heart Project as well as husbandry and veterinary teams at each institution, CZAW staff will collect qualitative behavioral data, monitor cardiovascular responses via implantable loop recorders, and collect fecal, urine and blood samples that will be assayed for biomarkers of stress. These comprehensive physiological and behavioral measures will allow us to validate meaningful non-invasive welfare indicators, including a measure of oxidative stress, DNA damage. We will also be able to investigate relationships between transport stress, DNA damage, and cardiac health. Given that heart disease is the leading cause of death for gorillas in managed care, these relationships are critical. We hope to provide insight into what individuals experience during transfers and help ensure that we are proactive in implementing management protocols that support optimal well-being for the gorillas in our care.