Neža gave birth to baby Leona in late March, but the Ljubljana Zoo wanted to give the chimpanzee parents some time alone to accept and get to know the newborn as well as get used to their parental role. Additionally, Leona was very susceptible to various illnesses in her first few months, i.e. during spring time, when visitors could still bring viruses into the zoo.

Happy family
The three-month-old, still cradled in the warm and safe arms of her 18-year-old mother Neža, now curiously peeps into the world. The zookeepers have already had the privilege to stroke her head through the netted fence by the service corridor, as Neža proudly brought her to the caretakers. They controlled Leona’s growth, progress and health condition, reported the Ljubljana Zoo.

New playground for the offspring
Their home has also been fully renovated this month. Wall coverings, the paving, climbing constructions and the playground have all been replaced. The young family will now get a chance to get to know the re-designed environment, and the ZOO believes they will become very fond of it. Leona will soon be able to practise her skills of climbing on the new playground as soon. For now, however, she is still holding on tight to her mum Neža, since she is still too young to go exploring on her own.

T. H., MMC; translated by K. Z.