Endangered Baby Western Lowland Gorilla Born At Bristol Zoo

Bristol Zoo had a lovely expected surprise yesterday, As Salome their female gorilla gave birth to a beautiful baby.

Salome is shown cradling and adoring her new bundle of joy. The tender moments photographed seconds after the tiny lowland gorilla was born, are truly remarkable.

The new arrival, which is yet to be named because staff are unsure whether it’s a girl or a boy, is the latest addition to the conservation breeding programme, created to protect and save the endangered species.

The gorilla house at Bristol Zoo has been closed at present to allow father Jock to bond with his newborn. Mother and baby and reported to be doing great.

Zoo keeper John Partridge said: ‘Salome keeps the baby very close and we are keen to give the gorillas space, therefore it is still too early to determine the sex of the baby.

He added, ‘We are thrilled with the arrival of a baby gorilla.

‘It is still very early days, but Salome is a great mother and has been cradling and cuddling her baby affectionately.

‘We are pleased to say that both Salome and the baby are doing well.

‘Naturally the gorilla keepers will keep a very close eye on mother and baby in these crucial first few days and weeks to ensure that they, along with the rest of the gorilla group, are healthy, content and bonding well.’

This baby gorilla is the first to be born in the UK after the tragedy at London Zoo earlier this year, when a new imported male killed a newborn after being introduced.

It’s Salome third baby at Bristol Zoo, and the staff are excited to say the least! Salome’s last baby was conceived in December 06.

Well Done Salome!