This update was written by primate keeper Melba Brown.

Western lowland gorilla infant Moke is growing bigger and stronger by the day. His movements are more fluid now, and he is able to walk without too much of a wobble.

His mother, Calaya, has clearly taken note of this. During a recent group encounter, Calaya approached Kibibi and followed her into another enclosure, leaving Moke unattended. I watched Moke to see what his reaction would be. He turned and looked at the area where Calaya and Kibibi went. After less than a minute, Calaya returned to collect Moke. It appears that she sees her son as somewhat of a big boy who can handle some minimal time without her.