Miliki and baby
The birth of Blackpool’s first ever critically endangered Western Lowland Gorilla has been hugely anticipated by zoo staff and visitors alike since the pregnancy was announced in December.
The beautiful bouncing baby, whose sex is yet to be confirmed, was born during the night and was found by keepers suckling from proud new mum Miliki on Friday 7th May.
Although mother and child are on public view, sightings of the baby have so far been rare, as it will spend the next few weeks clinging to Miliki’s chest until it builds strength and co-ordination.
At between eight and twelve weeks it will start to crawl and ride on its mothers back before learning to walk at around nine months.
A second important baby, a Pileated gibbon, was born the day before the gorilla to 20 year old, first time Mum, Ivy. Both are doing well.
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