Taronga Zoo Sydney is thrilled to announce the arrival of a healthy baby chimpanzee in their chimpanzee community. Lisa, an experienced 43-year-old chimpanzee, gave birth to the female baby on 23 May. The keepers observed Lisa introducing her newborn to the larger chimpanzee community, which now consists of 21 individuals.
Primate Supervisor Richard Buzas said, “Lisa is bonding well with the newborn, holding her close, nursing her regularly, and allowing other community members to meet the infant.” Newborn chimpanzees spend most of their time snuggled against their mothers’ chests, receiving attentive care and protection. Although initially supported by Lisa’s firm grip, the baby will soon hold on independently.
Chimpanzees are classified as Endangered, facing threats such as habitat loss, illegal wildlife trafficking, and hunting. Taronga Conservation Society collaborates with the Jane Goodall Institute, supporting conservation initiatives in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Visitors to the zoo may catch glimpses of the newborn with Lisa, but the playful antics of the group’s three young juveniles, aged between two and a half to five years old, are more likely to be spotted. To learn more about the chimpanzee community and conservation efforts, guests can join the daily Chimpanzee Keeper Talk at 12pm. Taronga Zoo Sydney continues to champion the well-being and preservation of these remarkable species.
For more information, visit www.taronga.org.au