It’s a … baby gorilla!
Samantha, a 15-year-old gorilla at the ABQ BioPark, gave birth to her first baby at 10:29 a.m. Zoo staff have not yet determined the sex of the baby, who was fathered by 20-year-old Kojo, who came to the BioPark last year. It’s the first baby gorilla welcomed at the zoo since 2004.
Samantha and her baby. Photo: ABQ BioPark
The city, through a press release, said zoo caregivers were present during the birth, watching remotely via camera, ready to intervene for the health and safety of the animals if necessary. However, the natural process unfolded without incident, and Samantha and the baby have started nursing.
Both have had access to the outside yard since the birth, but guests should be prepared for the Ape Walk to be intermittently closed to allow for privacy and a quiet environment while the baby and mom bond.
A video of the birth (which may be graphic for some) and bonding moments are available below, and the zoo plans to share more photos and footage in the coming days and weeks.
Tracy Goldizen is the editor of the Neighborhood Journal. She has more than 15 years of experience in journalism, including writing and photography as well as serving as the editor of several magazine publications before joining the NJ staff. Her work has won several awards in Iowa. Contact her at tgoldizen@neighborhoodjournal.com.
