An endangered western lowland gorilla has given birth to a healthy baby in front of stunned tourists at Bioparc Fuengirola.
The female, Wefa, delivered her baby at 2.50pm on November 29, choosing the outdoor enclosure rather than the indoor birthing area prepared by staff.
The zoo described the moment as ‘exceptional in modern zoology’, with guests watching in silence as the birth took place under the sun.
Zookeepers had suspected the birth was imminent after noticing behavioural changes throughout Friday.
Early Saturday, clear contractions confirmed that labour had begun.
But instead of heading to the specially prepared indoor space, Wefa walked into the outdoor habitat for her morning enrichment, where the birth happened quickly and without complications.
Moments after giving birth, Wefa cleaned and cradled her newborn, while other members of the gorilla troop approached cautiously to inspect the baby from a respectful distance.
Wefa, who was raised in a French zoo and familiar with witnessing several past births, previously observed the arrival of Ekan, the group’s other young gorilla at Bioparc. Staff say her experience is clearly reflected in her confident early care.
As is common in primates, she tore the umbilical cord herself and consumed part of the placenta, which is part of a natural behaviour that provides vital nutrients and energy in the first days of motherhood.
In the coming days the newborn will begin clinging firmly to its mother’s fur as she moves around the enclosure.
Keepers and veterinarians will monitor the mother and baby closely over the next week, ensuring that the infant feeds well, holds on with enough strength, and integrates safely within the group’s social dynamics. Staff stress they will not interfere unless medically necessary.
Western lowland gorillas are classified as Critically Endangered by the IUCN, with populations decimated by poaching and habitat loss.
Each successful birth within the European programme is considered vital for the species’ long-term survival.
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