First baby gorilla born at London Zoo in 20 years

A BABY gorilla has been born at London Zoo to first-time mother Mjukuu.

She gave birth to the healthy male western lowland gorilla baby on Tuesday afternoon after a straightforward labour which was closely monitored by the zoo’s vets and keepers.

Zookeepers are delighted with the tiny new arrival, who has yet to be named and will grow into a 25-stone silverback gorilla.

Zoological director David Field said: “Mother and baby are both doing brilliantly, although it’s still early days. ‘Aunties’ Zaire and Effie were at the birth and have remained with Mjukuu throughout.”

Staff at London zoo will now begin the sensitive process of introducing the newborn to his stepfather Kesho which is not without its risks because the older gorilla could kill the younger one.

But staff are making every effort to assist a smooth introduction and hopefully ensure the gorillas form a cohesive family group, which now consists of Kesho, the male aged 11, Mjukuu aged 12, Zaire, aged 36 and Effie, aged 17.