Overview

• Jameela, the first gorilla born by Cesarean section at the Fort Worth Zoo, has been under constant care since her birth but failed to bond with potential surrogate mothers.
• The Fort Worth Zoo decided to transfer Jameela to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, known for its success in surrogacy, in hopes of finding her a surrogate mother.
• Over 50 zoo staff members have been involved in Jameela's care, using methods like wearing felt ponchos to mimic motherly contact and making gorilla noises for comfort.
• The move highlights the complexity of gorilla social dynamics and the importance of gorilla-to-gorilla upbringing during formative years.
• The Fort Worth community has shown overwhelming support for Jameela, with many expressing a lifelong interest in her wellbeing and care.