Kayembe Shorts
Description: Kayembe was the first baby gorilla in Cleveland Metroparks Zoo’s history. His name means “extraordinary” in recognition of his amazing birth and story. Kayembe was estimated to be at least six weeks premature at birth and his mother, Nneka, did not immediately show appropriate maternal care that is required for newborn gorillas. However, the troop’s eldest female, Fredrika or “Freddy,” quickly picked him up and has been serving as his surrogate mother ever since.
Description: Kayembe was the first baby gorilla in Cleveland Metroparks Zoo’s history. His name means “extraordinary” in recognition of his amazing birth and story. Kayembe was estimated to be at least six weeks premature at birth and his mother, Nneka, did not immediately show appropriate maternal care that is required for newborn gorillas. However, the troop’s eldest female, Fredrika or “Freddy,” quickly picked him up and has been serving as his surrogate mother ever since.
Description: This image captures a touching family moment among three gorillas. The gorilla in the forefront is Freddy, a remarkable 50-year-old mother who has adopted both younger gorillas seen with her. On Freddy's back is Jameela, a baby gorilla from Fort Worth, Texas, who looks secure and content. Following closely behind is Kayembe, a curious toddler holding onto Freddy for support. This heartwarming scene showcases the deep bonds and family structure in gorilla communities, with Freddy's dedication as an adoptive mother highlighting the profound connections that can form in the animal kingdom.
Description: Tusa was born at the Bronx Zoo 1989. Both parents were born in the wild in the 1960's. She has been in three Zoos (2-1/2 years at The Bronx Zoo, 27 years at the Albuquerque Bio Park Zoo , and 5 here in Cleveland). She has no offspring. Tusa is the last adult gorilla to join our troop, and she is the smallest female. She was raised by humans and tends to be the most vocal gorilla here.
