Endangered western lowland gorilla born at Antwerp Zoo

The birth of a “critically endangered” western lowland gorilla is being celebrated as “an important milestone” at Antwerp Zoo.

As the first offspring of silverback Ayo and Mayani, the arrival of the baby gorilla in the early hours of the morning on 31 August was a highly-anticipated event at the Great Ape Valley.

“A tiny hand clutching tightly in the warm fur of mama Mayani. It is a sight the keepers have been looking forward to for months,” the city zoo said in a statement.

After patiently waiting eight-and-a-half months for the birth, keepers were making their first rounds with eager anticipation.

“And this morning was a celebration: Mayani held a tiny baby close to her. Night footage shows that the little gorilla was born around 5.00, quietly amid the group.”

The delivery went smoothly, confirmed the zoo, and the keepers were pleased to observe the little one already drinking.

“It still has a crumpled little face and wet fur, which Mayani very carefully licks dry. The umbilical cord also fascinates Mama Mayani. The keepers cannot yet say whether it is a boy or a girl,” it commented.

“We know Mayani through and through. Seeing her so calm and caring with her baby touches us all. That is ultimately what you do it for,” said keeper Melanie. “A birth remains exciting and special every time.”

Although this was the second offspring for the experienced mother, it was a first for silverback Ayo and the start of his genetic line in the European conservation programme.

“The birth is not only an important milestone for the gorilla group at Antwerp Zoo, but also for the survival of this critically endangered great ape species,” added the zoo.

The numbers of western lowland gorillas continue to decline due to deforestation, poaching, illegal hunting, mining, diseases such as Ebola and the fragmentation of their habitat.

Every birth within the European species conservation programme contributes to a healthy reserve population and helps safeguard the genetic diversity of the species, it explained.

Photo: Mayani and her baby ©Antwerp Zoo