During a family’s visit to Franklin Park Zoo, Boston, MA, a new mom showed off her little newborn to a gorilla named Kiki. Like a proud mom, Kiki ran to fetch her little baby to show off to the human mother.
Background
In the video, Emmelina Austin, her husband Michael, and their 1-month-old son Canyon were exploring the zoo, snapping some photos and taking some videos, when they arrived at the gorilla enclosure.
Michael recalled how Emmelina held their son up to the glass of the enclosure to show off to the curious onlooking gorilla. Adorably, the gorilla, whose name is Kiki, ran to her shelter and fetched her 7-month-old baby, Pablo to come say hi.
“Kiki was talking to us with her hands,” Michael later remarked. At one point, Pablo even pressed his face against the glass, which likely mirrored Canyon’s curiosity. It must’ve been so special for the families to share their love of their children, a love that extends across species.
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The Video
Michael summed up the experience as one of the most amazing of their lives.
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M.W
Friday 29th of March 2024
As a mother and grandmother I was touched and moved, it was one of the most beautiful videos I saw. I couldn't help the tears of pure happiness and delight, I wanted to express how rare and unique this mother got to experience. Regardless of the species but for this occasions the gorilla felt a sense of some kind of bond for that moment. As the gorilla mother took pride in her walk to retrieve her child. Even though beyond the glass and communication barrier to have such a honor of a mother non-human sharing with you the love, affection and pride we have for our children and to be bringing her child out. I'm not sure because they get so many visitors and she does everything to protect keep him out of out of public eye, either way you had the most wonderful time.
Cyd
Friday 29th of March 2024
We underestimate all animals - they have an intelligence far beyond what we know about them. It’s truly amazing this story. Thank you for sharing.
Maria Quintanar
Thursday 28th of March 2024
Adorable lovable
Thursday 28th of March 2024
Mama gorilla is so proud of her baby
Lolla
Thursday 28th of March 2024
I watched a gorilla mother encourage her baby to take their first steps. It was no different than s human mother, and so enthralling.