The Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute is overjoyed to celebrate the birth of a western lowland gorilla, a species critically endangered. This joyous occasion marks the first time in half a decade that the institute’s primate division has welcomed a newborn of this species.
Welcoming the Newborn Gorilla
The infant gorilla came into the world on May 27, during the early hours between midnight and 6:15 a.m. The newborn’s parents are Calaya and Baraka, aged 20 and 31, respectively. The successful procreation was facilitated by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan(SSP) ‘s recommendation and occurred in September 2022.
A Second Miracle
This arrival marks the second progeny for both parents. Their firstborn, Moke, was also brought into the world at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute in April 2018. Under the attentive care of his parents and keepers, Moke is flourishing and growing into a healthy juvenile gorilla.
The Care and Vigilance Involved
The successful birth of this critically endangered gorilla is the result of the diligent efforts and expertise of the primate staff. The National Zoo’s Animal Care team has meticulously provided round-the-clock attention to Calaya and her newborn. Since the delivery, the team has been closely monitoring the mother-infant pair, regularly checking their vital signs. As both Calaya and her baby are still in infancy, bonding is crucial for their well-being.
Despite these early stages, they have noted that Calaya is excellently nurturing the baby, evidenced by her nursing and grooming activities. The zoo staff continues to monitor the pair using closed-circuit cameras. Once it is deemed safe, visitors can observe Calaya and her baby at the Great Ape House.
The Significance of Gorillas
Western lowland gorillas face critical endangerment due to habitat destruction and hunting. In their natural habitat, these gorillas inhabit the dense forests of central and West Africa. The Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute has relentlessly tried to study and preserve the species via research and breeding programs. The birth of this second offspring of the gorilla pair is a vital step for the species’ survival, as their numbers have been dwindling at a faster pace than expected.
Conclusion
The birth of this critically endangered gorilla signifies a substantial achievement for the National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute. The institute’s primate staff takes pride in the successful breeding, made possible by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan, which led to the birth of Calaya and Baraka’s second offspring. The zoo fosters a secure and nurturing environment for these critically endangered beings by closely monitoring and safeguarding the mother and baby gorillas. The birth of this gorilla will heighten public awareness regarding the plight of Western lowland gorillas and the urgency of their preservation for future generations.
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Source Description
For the first time in five years, primate staff at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute are celebrating the birth of a western lowland gorilla—a critically endangered species. It was born between midnight and 6:15 a.m. on May 27 to a 20-year-old mother, Calaya, and a 31-year-old father, Baraka. They bred in September 2022 following a breeding recommendation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan (SSP). This is the second offspring for both parents.
