Wellington Zoo has announced the birth of a healthy baby chimpanzee, the newest member of the zoo’s whānau.
The baby, a female, was born in the early hours of Good Friday to first-time mother Malika. Zoo staff said the chimp arrived a few weeks earlier than expected, but she is now doing well. The baby has not yet been given a name.
Harmony Neale, the primate team leader at Te Nukuao Wellington Zoo, said it was a wonderful surprise to arrive at work on Friday and find that Malika had given birth overnight by herself. She explained that the baby was believed to be about three weeks premature. The first few days were difficult, but Malika worked hard to make sure her baby was feeding and resting properly. Staff have been pleased to see the baby getting stronger each day.
Neale also said it has been lovely to watch Malika become a mother so naturally. The rest of the chimpanzee troop has been curious about the new arrival, but they have also given Malika and her baby the space they need. One young chimp called Akida has been a little jealous, because at four years old he is used to being the youngest and getting lots of attention.
The baby’s name will be decided after talks with the zoo’s international conservation partner, the Fauna and Flora Liberia Programme. After that, the Wellington community will be invited to help choose a name. Visitors may be able to spot the baby chimp during their next trip to the zoo. The best time to try is during the daily chimp talks at 12.45 pm.
