COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium announced a critically endangered gorilla was born at the zoo last week.

What You Need To Know

  • The baby western lowland gorilla is the first for gorilla Sue, the mom

  • So far, the staff said Sue is very attentive to the baby, as she nuzzles and cradles it closely

  • The western lowland gorilla is listed as critically endangered, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species

  • The main reasons for their population declines are habitat loss and deforestation

The baby western lowland gorilla is the first for gorilla Sue, the mom, the zoo said. So far, the staff said Sue is very attentive to the baby, as she nuzzles and cradles it closely. The sex of the baby hasn't been determined, as the staff gives the baby time to bond with its mom. 

Since the gorilla troop is adjusting well, the zoo said the indoor viewing habitat in the zoo's Congo Expedition region will remain closed for several days for privacy. But starting July 8, guests will be able to see the gorilla troop with opportunities starting at 11 a.m. until the zoo closes at 6 p.m. Viewing of the baby is not guaranteed, as they have access to the indoor habitat and may be in there. 

The zoo said viewing hours will remain limited as the troop bonds. 

“For months, our care team has been busy preparing for the baby’s arrival, and we are thrilled that the time has finally come to welcome this important new addition. With tiny hands and beautiful big brown eyes that melt our hearts, this baby is absolutely precious—in regard to both the cuteness factor and what the baby represents for this species’ future. We are proud of the dedication of our care teams who diligently work to provide the gorillas with top quality care and wellbeing while continuing the legacy of the Columbus Zoo’s renown gorilla program,” said Audra Meinelt, curator of the Columbus Zoo’s Congo Expedition region, in a release. 

The western lowland gorilla is listed as critically endangered, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species. The main reasons for their population declines are habitat loss and deforestation. 

The Columbus Zoo has worked to help preserve the species by supporting several gorilla conservation projects in Central Africa, as well as founding the Partners in Conservation effort in 1991 to protect African wildlife through humanitarian projects. PIC has supported more than 60 projects focused in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, according to the zoo. 

Related Stories