Historic Birth at Detroit Zoo: First Baby Gorilla in 96 Years

The Detroit Zoo in Michigan celebrated the birth of its first baby gorilla in 96 years. The baby, born to gorillas Bandia and Mshindi, has yet to be named or sexed. The zoo staff extensively prepared for the birth by training the gorillas with a stuffed animal. Public viewing will begin once the mother and baby bond.

The Detroit Zoo recently celebrated a historic event: the birth of its first baby gorilla in its 96-year history. The baby gorilla was born on Thursday to Bandia, who had a smooth pregnancy according to Tami Brightrall, the zoo's associate curator of mammals.

The newborn, whose sex has not yet been determined and remains unnamed, joins four other gorillas at the zoo, including parents Bandia and Mshindi. Staff members put in months of preparation, using a stuffed gorilla to train the troop on how to care for the baby.

Currently, the newborn and mother are not on public display. "The area will reopen once the animal care team determines mom and baby have had enough time to bond and become comfortable in their habitat," said Melissa Thueme, a mammal supervisor at the zoo.

(With inputs from agencies.)