In a momentous occasion for Zoo Atlanta, a western lowland gorilla infant was born to Shalia on April 24, 2023, continuing the cherished legacy of the late Willie B.
Although the newborn arrived two weeks earlier than expected, zoo officials say it appears healthy, strong, and is receiving proper maternal care. The infant’s sex remains unconfirmed.
This birth marks the 25th gorilla born at Zoo Atlanta since the opening of The Ford African Rain Forest in 1988. The infant is the first offspring of Willie B. Jr., the only son of the legendary late Willie B., an icon in Atlanta. While not the first grandchild of Willie B., this newborn carries on the esteemed family tradition.
Raymond B. King, President and CEO of Zoo Atlanta, commented on the significance of this event, “The Willie B. legacy is a uniquely Atlanta tradition. Generations of Atlantans grew up with Willie B. and later his children and grandchildren, making connections not only with gorillas but also with a story that has become symbolic of the evolution of Zoo Atlanta. We are thrilled to see that legacy continue and to welcome a newborn ambassador for a critically endangered species.”
Willie B. Jr.’s four sisters – Kudzoo, Olympia, Sukari, and Lulu – have contributed to the family legacy as mothers and group members. Kudzoo, Sukari, and Lulu reside at Zoo Atlanta, while Olympia lives at another accredited organization and has a son.
Willie B. Jr.’s troop includes two other adult females, Kambera and Amari. The Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Gorilla Species Survival Plan recommended the breeding of Willie B. Jr. and Shalia, aiming to maintain self-sustaining, genetically diverse gorilla populations in accredited zoos.
Visitors to Zoo Atlanta can try to catch a glimpse of Shalia and the infant at Gorilla Habitat 4 in The Ford African Rain Forest, although sightings are not guaranteed.
Zoo Atlanta has earned global recognition for its western…
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