Adorable and Endangered: Ohio Zoo Welcomes Baby Gorilla to Thrilled Mother

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Ohio announced the arrival of a newborn western lowland gorilla, the first child of mother Sue, over the weekend. This critically endangered baby has captured the hearts of zoo visitors and staff alike with its adorable features.

Mother Sue has been displaying remarkable maternal instincts, as she attentively nuzzles and cradles her precious newborn with tiny hands and beautiful big brown eyes. Audra Meinelt, curator of the Columbus Zoo's Congo Expedition region, expressed the significance of this baby for the future of the species, emphasizing the cuteness factor and its importance for the species' continuity.

Gender Reveal

The zoo staff is eagerly waiting to determine the baby's gender, allowing Sue and her newborn to bond without interruptions. Father Ktembe, along with other gorillas, is present at the zoo, maintaining a respectful distance to provide the mother and baby with space.

According to the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, the newborn gorilla is expected to grow to weigh around 300 to 500 pounds if it's a boy, and 150 to 200 pounds if it's a girl. Adult males and females can reach heights of up to 6 feet and 4.5 feet, respectively.

Family Dynamics

Jamani, the 4-year-old offspring of Ktembe and Cassie, has displayed curiosity and eagerness for playtime with the new addition to the family. While other members of the gorilla troop have gently corrected Jamani, it has been heartwarming to witness the family dynamics within the gorilla community at the zoo.

Endangered Species Conservation

The pairing of Sue and Ktembe was recommended by the Species Survival Plan, a program designed to maintain the genetic diversity of threatened and endangered species. With the declining population of western lowland gorillas, the birth of this baby is a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to conserve this critically endangered species.

Historical Significance

The Columbus Zoo has a rich history with gorilla conservation, being the former home of Colo, the first gorilla to be born in a zoo in 1956. Colo lived to be 60 years old and passed away in 2017. In total, 35 gorillas have been born at the Columbus Zoo, highlighting its longstanding commitment to gorilla conservation.

Challenges Faced by Endangered Gorillas

While the birth of the baby gorilla at the Columbus Zoo has been a cause for celebration, it also sheds light on the challenges faced by this endangered species. The population of western lowland gorillas has declined by more than 60% over the last 20 to 25 years, primarily due to disease and hunting pressures.

Unfortunately, not all zoos have experienced the same success with newborn gorillas and their mothers. Seattle's Woodland Park Zoo recently welcomed a baby gorilla, but the mother, Akenji, did not exhibit appropriate maternal behaviors despite extensive maternal skills training. As a result, the care team had to intervene and hand-rear the newborn.

Efforts to protect and conserve the western lowland gorilla population are critical, especially in the face of significant declines. The ongoing conservation initiatives seek to address the various challenges, including disease and hunting, to ensure the survival of this iconic species for future generations.