OKC Zoo Celebrates Birth Of Western Lowland Gorilla

The Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden is celebrating the arrival of a Western lowland gorilla newborn.

The baby was born at 8:57 p.m. on Wednesday, inside the Zoo’s Great Escape Habitat to first time mother Mikella, and Father Togo.

“We are thrilled to welcome a new gorilla to our animal family, especially during this festive time of the year," said Barry Downer, OKC Zoo’s deputy director.

“While both mother and baby appear to be healthy, because it’s critical to allow bonding time, the Zoo’s animal care team has not been able to determine the offspring’s gender,” said Downer.

Zoo’s veterinary staff and gorilla caretakers are closely monitoring the pair for the next 72 hours to ensure Mikella continues to show maternal behaviors, such as nursing.

This marks the 26th gorilla born at the Oklahoma City Zoo since 1974.