If you need a dose of cuteness to brighten your day, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has got you covered. The Zoo welcomed an adorable new member to its family: a baby western lowland gorilla, born in the early hours of June 29, 2024. First-time mom Sue and proud dad Ktembe are over the moon, and honestly, so are we!
Sue is already proving to be a fantastic mom. The Zoo’s Animal Care team reports that she’s super attentive, keeping her little one close and giving all the necessary cuddles. The baby’s sex is still a mystery for now, as the team is giving Sue and her baby some quiet bonding time before any check-ups.
In their habitat, Sue and her newborn are surrounded by a supportive troop.
Ktembe and the adult females, Nia and Cassie, are giving the new mom and baby some space, while curious four-year-old Jamani is learning to hold back her excitement about her new half-sibling.
While the gorilla troop settles into their new family dynamics, the indoor viewing habitat in the Congo Expedition region is temporarily closed to give them some privacy. But don’t worry, you can still visit the Zoo’s other gorilla troop outside, featuring the impressive silverback Mac and his group of females: Kinyani, Tabibu, Mo’ana, Sully, Kamina, Zahra, and Kwame.
Starting Monday, July 8, you’ll have the chance to see the new gorilla family in action from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Just keep in mind, baby sightings aren’t guaranteed as the troop has access to private indoor areas, so they might be out of view.
Audra Meinelt, curator of the Congo Expedition region, shared the excitement: “For months, our care team has been busy preparing for the baby’s arrival, and we are thrilled that the time has finally come to welcome this important new addition. With tiny hands and beautiful big brown eyes that melt our hearts, this baby is absolutely precious—in regard to both the cuteness factor and what the baby represents for this species’ future.”
A bit of history on the proud new parents
Sue was born at Lincoln Park Zoo in 2004 and joined the Columbus Zoo in 2014. Ktembe was born at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo in 1997 and came to Columbus in 2017.
Their pairing was recommended by the Species Survival Plan® (SSP) to help maintain the genetic diversity of endangered species. This little one is the 35th gorilla born at the Columbus Zoo, continuing a legacy that began with Colo, the first gorilla born in professional care back in 1956.
Western lowland gorillas are critically endangered, facing threats from habitat loss and the illegal bushmeat trade.
The Columbus Zoo is deeply involved in conservation efforts, supporting projects in Central Africa through Partners In Conservation (PIC). This initiative, founded by the Zoo in 1991, works on protecting African wildlife and supporting local communities.
The Zoo is also renowned for its successful gorilla fostering program, which has cared for both local and visiting gorillas in need of foster mothers. Over the years, this program has provided a loving environment for 16 young gorillas.
For the latest updates on the new baby gorilla and other Zoo news, follow the Columbus Zoo on social media and visit their website at ColumbusZoo.org. Don’t miss your chance to welcome the newest, tiniest member of the gorilla family!
