New arrival at Wellington Zoo

The big soulful eyes peering out from its mother’s arms was the first glimpse seen of the newest addition at Wellington Zoo, a baby Chimpanzee. Born to mother Sally, 27, on Sunday 10 June, this wee bundle is her fourth child, and brings the number of Chimpanzees at Wellington Zoo to 13.

The newborn Chimpanzee will be visible to visitors as it will be part of the troupe from the beginning.

“Sally is a very protective and serious mother,” explained Primate Keeper, Jacqui Hooper. “She’ll always have her baby’s back, as she has done with her son, Beni. The troupe is very respectful of the mothers in the group, and will keep a safe distance while the baby grows up. If she gives them permission, they will be able to get closer, but even the alpha male won’t approach without the okay.”

Chimpanzees develop at a similar rate to humans, so visitors will see the new chimpanzee being cared for by Sally over the next few years while it learns the ropes.

“Sally is experienced as a mother and will be teaching the other Chimpanzees how to be good mums,” said Jacqui. “This is definitely how we want them to progress.”

“Chimpanzees are born face up, and their mother will place them on the chest – the ideal spot for breastfeeding,” said Jacqui. “The baby will cling on and stay with their mother that way for quite some time.”

Chimpanzees will breastfeed exclusively for the first six months, before moving onto solids. The breastfeeding will continue for up to four years, as a comfort and bonding mechanism.

While the baby is young, visitors will be able to see Sally with her newborn nestled closely to her chest. To hear more about the troupe, there is a regular Chimpanzee talk at 12pm daily.

Wellington Zoo is a charitable trust principally funded by the Wellington City Council

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