Zoo celebrates birth of critically endangered gorilla, first in their 139-year history
Recently, one zoo had extra reason to celebrate: not only did they see the birth of an adorable newborn western lowland gorilla, but it was the first born at the zoo in their 139-year history.
While the mom did not show “appropriate maternal care,” the baby gorilla was instinctively cared for by Fredrika, a mother of four and the eldest female in the troop.
“The team worked with the gorillas using positive reinforcement training techniques, through a protective barrier, to facilitate cooperative participation in the supplemental feeding of the infant. The technique allows the infant to stay with the gorilla family at all times to allow proper physical development.”
The zoo has been home to many gorillas over the years, and is considered an “international leader in gorilla research,” but this is reportedly the first time a newborn has arrived at the zoo.
“We’re thrilled to announce the birth of this gorilla, the first in our history, as we also look ahead towards the future at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo,” said Cleveland Metroparks CEO Brian M. Zimmerman.
According to their press release, the zoo helped spearhead the Gorilla Species Survival Plan and work closely with Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International.
Plus, this adorable newborn will be sure to delight visitors to the zoo, hopefully inspiring them to get involved with the conservation effort.
The zoo announced plans to get the public involved, including an opportunity to help name the baby. They also said they will continue to post videos and updates about the gorilla’s development.