First baby gorilla born in zoo’s 96-year history. See the ‘precious’ little one

For the first time in a Michigan zoo’s 96-year history, a gorilla gave birth to a baby, zoo officials said.

At 2 a.m. Aug. 8, first-time mother Bandia welcomed a “beautiful” baby, according to a Facebook post by the Detroit Zoo.

The “precious” baby is thriving under her mama’s care, officials said.

The baby’s father, Mshindi, along with the rest of the gorillas, were given “baby training” in preparation for the little one’s birth, officials said.

Although they are curious, they’re keeping away from the “new addition,” officials said.

Zoo staff wanted to give Bandia and her baby a “quiet place to bond,” so the zoo’s Great Apes building and gorilla outdoor habitat are temporarily closed to the public, officials said.

This story was originally published August 9, 2024 at 2:47 PM with the headline "First baby gorilla born in zoo’s 96-year history. See the ‘precious’ little one."