Critically Endangered Gorillas Born at London Zoo Offer Hope for Species

The births, facilitated by a conservation breeding program, aim to combat the subspecies' dramatic population decline.

London Zoo celebrates the birth of two critically endangered western lowland gorillas this winter, marking a hopeful moment for the species.
The baby gorillas were sired by Kiburi, a 19-year-old silverback, as part of an international conservation breeding program.
One of the baby gorillas was born to mother Mjukuu after a quick 17-minute labor, showcasing her strong mothering instincts.
The other baby, born to mother Effie, faced initial challenges as it arrived wrapped in its umbilical cord, but is now healthy.
The births are part of efforts to preserve the critically endangered subspecies, which has seen a population decline of over 60% in 25 years.