WATCH: Gorilla See, Gorilla Do; Bolingo Mimics Caretaker

TAMPA, FL -- While Busch Gardens Tampa animal care specialist Rachel Hale, 28, has successfully trained the primates in the park to distinguish colors and shapes, it's the behavior she's taught Bolingo the gorilla that's garnering attention around the world.

Playing a "monkey see, monkey do" game with the gorilla, Hale has taught Bolingo to mimic her stretching exercises and, best yet, her handstands.

Hale, who works specifically with primates at the park, said it took a lot of time (actually, three years) and patience to teach Bolingo to do a handstand. He finally perfected the maneuver last week.

Teaching the primates colors, shapes and, yes, handstands, is all part of the animal care specialist's mission to keep them mentally stimulated, which is sometimes a challenge with Bolingo, Hale said.

“He is often times goofy, energetic and intelligent and because of this, my goal each and every day is to find new ways to keep him engaged," she said. "He’s picky about what interests him, so the session that you are seeing in the video is me having to think outside the box for new ideas."

Hale admits she and Bolingo have developed a close bond.

"Our relationship is very special and there is nothing better than seeing Bolingo sprint across the habitat for an enrichment session with me. That will never grow old," she said.

Bolingo is one of seven gorillas that live on the Myombe Reserve at Busch Gardens.

Video via Busch Gardens