Baby Gorilla to be born at The Louisville Zoo
Update: On March 14, 2016 the baby was born after an emergency C-Section. The mama gorilla passed away due to complications on March 15, 2016.
See some footage of the baby by clicking here.
Mom Mia Moja |
Baby! |
The Louisville Zoo announced today that one of the gorillas in their Gorilla Forest exhibit is expecting! The baby will likely be born in May 2016 according to the ultra sound findings. Mom is Mia Moja and dad is Mshind.
When the baby is born, it will bring the Louisville Zoo’s gorilla count up to 11. You will be able to take part in a contest to name the baby gorilla. To keep up with all of the baby gorilla excitement, visit Louisvillezoo.org/baby .
Wonder how the ultrasound a gorilla? |
In a media release, the Louisville Zoo provided details about the status of western lowland gorillas:
“Western lowland gorillas are considered critically endangered with 100,000 estimated to be left in the remnant wild. There are about 353 in 51 AZA institutions in North America. Due to habitat destruction primarily caused by mining, logging and agricultural expansion, their numbers continue to shrink. Coltan mining in particular is impacting the gorilla population. Coltan is a black metallic mineral that is used in nearly every electronic device today including cellphones. The Louisville Zoo partners with Louisville-based Eco Cell and collects old cell phones to help reduce the need for additional mining in and around gorilla habitats. The bushmeat trade and the Ebola virus are also major threats.”
They also stated that “This gorilla birth is part of a breeding recommendation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP). Breeding plans work to improve the genetic diversity of managed animal populations.”
We can’t wait to welcome a new gorilla to the Louisville Zoo! What a great opportunity for visitors!