A baby Western lowland gorilla has been born at Chessington World of Adventures.
Chessington World of Adventures' newest addition
The tiny primate was welcomed into the world by proud parents Shanga and Damisi on 24 April and will slowly be introduced to the rest of the eight-strong troop at the resort over the next few weeks.
The creature will be passed around between the rest of the Western lowland gorillas so each one of the animals can familiarise themselves with the new baby,and into the future, visitors will catch a glimpse of it riding on their mother's back until they are around two or three years old.
Adam Douglass, Primate Zookeeper at Chessington World of Adventures Resort, commented: “It’s hugely exciting for the entire Zoo team as we welcome our newest arrival to Chessington. As this is early days and a sensitive time for the mother and baby to bond, we’re monitoring their well-being and development extremely closely, with both currently doing well. We’re still waiting to find out the sex of the little one, and over the coming days we’re looking forward to introducing our guests to the newest arrival of this incredible and critically endangered species.”
As well as Shanga and Damisi, the baby gorilla is joined at Chessington by Shani, Asili, Mbula, Mwana, Kuanza and Kipande, who was born in 2018 and was previously the youngest member of the troop.
As well as a zoo and a SEA LIFE aquarium, Chessington also boasts a theme park with over 40 rides and attractions, two themed hotels, and explorer glamping. Standard day tickets start from £34 at Chessington.com.