Ohio, United States

Columbus Zoo, in the US state of Ohio, has welcomed a new addition to its gorilla family - a critically endangered western lowland baby gorilla born to first-time mother Sue and experienced father Ktembe.

Advertisment

The infant, with tiny hands and beautiful big brown eyes, was born in the early hours of Saturday (June 29) morning.

Zoo officials said that Sue is providing excellent care to her newborn, nuzzling and cradling the baby closely.

To ensure Sue and her offspring have time to bond, the zoo will determine the sex of the baby at a later date.

Advertisment

Also Read | Rare vampire squid's appearance in South China Sea leaves biologists puzzled

The indoor viewing habitat in the Zoo's Congo Expedition region will remain closed for several days to provide the gorillas with privacy.

Critically endangered

Advertisment

Western lowland gorillas are listed as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

Also Read | THIS animal was painted in the first artwork created by humans in Indonesian cave

“Habitat loss and deforestation have historically been the primary cause for declining populations of Africa’s great apes, but experts now agree that the illegal commercial bushmeat trade has surpassed habitat loss as the primary threat to ape populations—particularly for western lowland gorillas,” zoo officials reportedly said.

Watch | Chinese-owned leather bag supplier of Dior under investigation

×

The Columbus Zoo has a long history with gorillas, being the birthplace of Colo, the first gorilla born in a zoo in 1956. This baby is the 35th gorilla born at the Columbus Zoo since then.

The pairing of Sue and Ktembe was recommended by the Species Survival Plan, a program coordinated by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums to maintain the genetic diversity of threatened and endangered species in professional care.

The zoo's expert Animal Care team had been preparing for the baby's arrival and is dedicated to providing the gorillas with top-quality care and well-being.

Curator of the Columbus Zoo’s Congo Expedition region Audra Meinelt reportedly said, "We are proud of the dedication of our care teams who diligently work to provide the gorillas with top quality care and wellbeing while continuing the legacy of the Columbus Zoo’s renown gorilla program."

The zoo invites visitors to see the newly expanded gorilla family starting Monday, July 8, from 11 am to 6 pm throughout July, although baby viewing is not guaranteed as the troop will have access to the indoor habitat and behind-the-scenes areas.

(With inputs from agencies)