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Summary of Description:
The Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute allows western lowland gorilla fans to vote on a name for a baby gorilla born May 27. The three possible names to vote on are Lola, Mkali, and Zahra. The winning name will be announced on June 9. The International Union of Conservation of Nature critically endangers the western lowland gorilla species.
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“Name a Baby Gorilla: Vote Now at the National Zoo”
Western lowland gorilla fans have the rare opportunity to vote on a name for a baby gorilla born at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI). The newborn gorilla is a female, and primate keepers have selected three possible name choices for voters.
Celebrating a Critically Endangered Species
Every western lowland gorilla birth is a cause for celebration as this species is considered critically endangered by the International Union of Conservation of Nature. The birth of a new gorilla serves as a reminder of the vital role zoos play in conservation efforts.
Festive Enrichment Reveal
This morning, primate keepers at the National Zoo threw a party for the gorilla troop as they revealed the newborn’s gender through festive enrichment. The enrichment was designed to create a fun and stimulating environment for the gorillas while revealing the baby’s gender.
Name Choices from the Primate Keepers
The primate keepers have selected three possible name choices for the newborn gorilla. The name that receives the most votes will be bestowed on the baby. The choices are Lola [LOH-la], which is Yoruba for “greatness,” Mkali [M-KAH-lee], which is Swahili for “fierce,” and Zahra [ZAH-rah], which is also Swahili and means “beautiful flower.”
Voting for the Baby Gorilla Name
Voters can select their favorite names now through noon on Friday, June 9, on the National Zoo’s website. Fans are encouraged to share the voting link with their friends and family to help determine the best name for the newborn gorilla.
Announcing the Winning Name
The winning name for the baby gorilla will be announced on the afternoon of Friday, June 9, on the National Zoo’s website and social media accounts. Fans can follow the Zoo on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest updates and to see the adorable newborn gorilla.
A Reminder of Conservation Efforts
The birth of a new western lowland gorilla highlights the need for conservation efforts to protect this endangered species. Zoos play an essential role in wildlife conservation by conducting research, breeding programs, and public education. The National Zoo is proud to be a leader in conservation biology and continues to work towards a brighter future for all animals.
In conclusion, naming a baby gorilla is an unforgettable experience, and fans of the National Zoo have the exciting opportunity to participate. With three possible choices, it’s up to the public to vote for the best name. The winning name will be announced on June 9, but the actual prize is a reminder of the vital conservation work done by zoos.
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Source Description
Starting today, June 5, western lowland gorilla fans can vote on a name for a baby gorilla born May 27 at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI). Every western lowland gorilla birth is a cause for celebration as this species is considered critically endangered by the International Union of Conservation of Nature. This morning, primate keepers threw a party for the gorilla troop, and festive enrichment revealed that the newborn is female. Voters can select their favorite names today through noon Friday, June 9, on the Zoo’s website. The winning name will be announced on June 9.
The primate keepers selected the three possible name choices. The name that receives the most votes will be bestowed on the baby. The choices are:
Lola [LOH-la]: Yoruba for “greatness.”
Mkali [M-KAH-lee]: Swahili for “fierce”
Zahra [ZAH-rah]: Swahili for “beautiful flower.”
VOTE HERE: https://nationalzoo.si.edu/animals/vote-name-baby-gorilla.