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February 22 Update From a Great Ape House Keeper

It is amazing to watch just how quickly the gorilla baby is growing and changing. She now has noticeably more hair, is getting stronger by the day, and has been increasingly alert and interested in her surroundings.

pink fingersOne of the baby’s distinguishing physical characteristics that many of the visitors may have noticed is the pink-tipped fingers on her right hand. This type of depigmentation has been observed in many gorillas both in captivity and in wild populations. The pink or marbled skin generally appears on the hands and feet. In some cases, the skin will darken to black as the gorilla ages, while in other cases the pink will remain into adulthood. It will be interesting to see if the baby’s pink fingertips will remain that way or fade away.

We reported last time that Mandara had started carrying the baby on her back for short periods. She continues to do this with more regularity when she is walking for more than a few steps. It has been very interesting, and at times entertaining, to watch the other gorillas’ reactions to this new development. While the new vantage point allows the baby a better look at her environment, it also allows her family members a better view of her.

This week, keepers witnessed grandma Haloko attempt a very calculated personal “meet and greet.” Haloko, in her usual relaxed way, was resting in the large indoor enclosure when Mandara started to stroll past her with the baby slung on her back. Haloko watched closely as Mandara walked the length of the enclosure, eventually passing in front of her. Just as Mandara passed her, she slyly reached up and tried to pluck the baby from Mandara’s back! The baby has a strong grip, and although she was jostled, did not let go. Mandara paused a few feet away to reach back to ensure that her little girl was still there. Very sneaky, Haloko!

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