New Arrival in Dublin Zoo

Dublin Zoo have announced the birth of a new baby gorilla

Cork families planning a traditional visit to Dublin Zoo during the school holidays will have a chance to see their latest arrival a baby western lowland gorilla.

Proud mum, Lena, gave birth to a healthy, baby gorilla in the early hours of Saturday morning (16th July). The new-born weighs approximately 1.8kgs and so far keepers have been unable to determine the gender because Lena is keeping the baby close to her chest.

Lena, who was born in 1984, is an experienced mother and this is her seventh baby. The baby’s father was silverback Harry who passed away in May.
 

Helen Clarke-Bennett, leader of the animal care team responsible for the gorillas said, “We are absolutely thrilled with the birth of the baby gorilla. The youngster is doing very well and is very bright and alert.  Within minutes the baby was feeding from mum Lena which is a very good sign.”

“Lena is a great mother and so far she hasn’t let go of her newborn. She will continue to cradle the baby in her arms non-stop for the next two to three months. When she does eventually let the toddler out of her arms to explore, the youngster won’t go far because Lena will not allow the baby go more than an arms length away.”
 

“It has been a sad time for the team after Harry’s death and this has really put a smile on everyone’s face. Big brother Kituba is taking a keen interest in the new arrival and the rest of the troop has reacted very well. The new arrival is a great success for Dublin Zoo as part of the European breeding programme for these critically endangered primates.”