Audubon Zoo

Tumani sits in her enclosure at the Audubon Zoo

Tumani, an 18-year-old western lowland gorilla, is pregnant at Audubon Zoo. The baby is due next month, and Audubon’s animal care team is watching the mother-to-be around the clock. The father is Okpara, a 32-year-old silverback gorilla. 

Audubon Zoo’s gorillas are part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan, which manages 343 gorillas in 49 North American zoos to support the sustainability of the species. There are currently four gorillas in Audubon’s care, and only one male. 

“Each gorilla birth plays a critical role in the conservation of the species. Our dedicated team is monitoring Tumani around-the-clock, and we are all excited to welcome this new infant,” said Michael J. Sawaya, Audubon Nature Institute’s Chief Executive Officer, in a press release. “Protecting gorillas and ensuring their future remains at the heart of our mission.”

Western lowland gorillas are a critically endangered species due to illegal hunting, disease, habitat loss and poaching. They are the smallest subspecies of gorilla and are known for their quiet, peaceful demeanor. Their gestation period is about eight and a half months, just short of human gestation. 

Audubon’s gorilla team will host a party to welcome the baby and celebrate Tumani’s 19th birthday next Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.