On April 15, 2018, the Smithsonian’s National Zoo in Washington, D.C., witnessed a remarkable and heartwarming event when Calaya, a western lowland gorilla, gave birth to her son, Moke. This historic birth was significant as it marked the first gorilla born at the zoo in nine years, bringing global attention to the event and the conservation efforts surrounding the critically endangered western lowland gorilla.
Calaya, a 15-year-old female gorilla, had been carefully monitored by zookeepers and veterinarians throughout her pregnancy, which lasted about eight and a half months, typical for gorillas. The zoo staff had worked diligently to ensure Calaya was prepared for motherhood, providing her with training sessions to teach her how to care for a newborn. This included mock training with a stuffed gorilla to familiarize her with the behaviors expected after birth, such as cradling and nursing.
The birth itself was captured on video, revealing a profound and intimate moment between mother and child. Calaya’s maternal instincts were immediately apparent. As soon as Moke was born, she gently cleaned him and held him close, a behavior common among gorilla mothers. The zoo released the video of Calaya giving birth, which quickly went viral, sparking admiration and emotional responses worldwide.
Western lowland gorillas like Calaya are native to the rainforests of Central Africa and are the smallest of the four gorilla subspecies. However, despite their size, they face the gravest threat of extinction, with their population having been reduced by over 60% in recent decades due to poaching, habitat destruction, and diseases like Ebola. The birth of Moke offered a glimmer of hope for the species and underscored the importance of conservation efforts in protecting these magnificent animals.
Calaya’s successful delivery of Moke is a testament to the careful planning, dedication, and care of the Smithsonian Zoo’s team. Her story also highlights the role zoos play in conserving endangered species and educating the public about the challenges wildlife face. For many, witnessing the birth of a gorilla like Calaya offers a rare and moving insight into the natural world, reminding us of the delicate balance of life and the urgent need to protect endangered species.