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L.A. Zoo Announces First Chimp Births in 11 Years: Two Healthy Baby Girls

The births bolster an AZA Species Survival Plan that manages genetic diversity for endangered chimpanzees.

Overview

  • The infants were born Aug. 20 to Yoshi with father Pu’iwa and Sept. 9 to first-time mother Vindi, and both remain unnamed.
  • Animal care staff report the mothers and babies are healthy and bonding in the Mahale Mountains habitat.
  • Viewing may be limited during the first weeks as the pairs spend time in an elevated area above the exhibit, though guests may occasionally spot them.
  • The zoo told LAist it is working to have the mothers and infants in the main exhibit as early as next week, depending on animal welfare needs.
  • Officials say the arrivals enrich the troop’s natural social structure and advance AZA’s Chimpanzee Species Survival Plan objectives across accredited zoos.