Dublin Zoo welcomes new arrival

Dublin Zoo say the birth of a western lowland gorilla has “put a smile on everyone’s faces” following the death of its father Harry the Gorilla in May.

The gorilla was born during early on Saturday morning.

Lena, who is aged 32, is an experienced mother, having previously given birth to seven babies.

Helen Clarke-Bennett, leader of the animal care team responsible for the gorillas said, “we are absolutely thrilled with the birth of the baby gorilla. The youngster is doing very well and is very bright and alert. Within minutes the baby was feeding from mum Lena which is a very good sign.”

One of the newborns big brothers Kituba is said to be taking a keen interest in the new arrival while the rest of the Gorilla troop are said to have reacted “very well”.

The baby Gorilla weighs around 1.8kgs, however zoo keepers have been unable to determine its gender as mum Lena is keeping it close to her chest at all times.

 

 

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