Lincoln Park Zoo Announces Birth of Endangered Gorilla

2012-10-17 — /travelprnews.com/ — Lincoln Park Zoo is pleased to announce the birth of a healthy baby western lowland gorilla on October 11.

The baby has yet to be sexed or named and appears to be doing well. Mother Bana, 17, is showing appropriate maternal instincts, while dad Kwan, a 23-year-old silverback, is watchful over the mom and baby pair.

“We are cautiously optimistic about the new arrival. So far, Bana and the baby are showing all the signs of a happy, healthy mom-and-baby pair,” said Curator of Primates Maureen Leahy.

The new baby joins a troop of six individuals, all of whom are curious about the new arrival but maintaining a respectful distance as Bana and her offspring bond. According to animal care staff, the new mom is already establishing routines.

“Bana has been nesting in a quiet corner of the enclosure where she can nurture her infant,” said Leahy. “The baby is nursing regularly and demonstrating positive behaviors like reaching and gripping tightly.”

Zookeepers and vets will closely monitor Bana and her baby to ensure they continue to do well, as the first few weeks are critical in the survival of newborn gorillas.

Western lowland gorillas are critically endangered in their native central Africa due to habitat loss and poaching. Lincoln Park Zoo’s great apes program is one of the best in the world. The state-of-the-art Regenstein Center for African Apes is internationally-recognized for its enriching exhibit design, while scientists at the zoo’s Lester E. Fisher Center for the Study and Conservation of Apes lead their field with research in behavioral studies and disease monitoring.

Guests can see Bana and her baby at Regenstein Center for African Apes at Lincoln Park Zoo starting October 17 from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily.

Video & photos available for download at: http://www.lpzoo.org/press-room/baby-gorilla

Media Contacts:

Sharon Dewar

(312) 742-2246

SDewar@lpzoo.org

Tiffany Ruddle

(312) 742-5791

TRuddle@lpzoo.org

ABOUT CHICAGO’S LINCOLN PARK ZOO
Chicago’s Lincoln Park Zoo, a historic landmark founded in 1868, is dedicated to connecting people with nature by providing a free, family-oriented wildlife experience. A leader in conservation science both globally and locally, the zoo exemplifies the highest quality animal care and educational outreach. The not-for-profit zoo, managed by The Lincoln Park Zoological Society, is a member-supported organization and one of the nation’s only free, privately managed zoos. For more information, call 312 -742-2000 or
visit www.lpzoo.org.

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