Detroit Zoo launches contest to name first baby gorilla

The Detroit Zoo has announced the birth of its first baby gorilla on August 8, marking a historic moment in the zoo's 96-year history. The infant, born to 26-year-old Bandia and 36-year-old Mshindi, is healthy and thriving. The zoo is now holding a naming contest for the baby gorilla, inviting the public to participate by voting for one of five names: Usala, Amateka, Mbere, Lobéké, and Motema.

Voting runs from August 26 to September 9, with each vote requiring a minimum donation of $10. The name that receives the highest donation amount will be selected as the winner. Proceeds from the naming contest will support the SAFE (Saving Animals From Extinction) Gorilla Program, which focuses on protecting wild gorilla populations through on-the-ground conservation efforts, research, monitoring, and education. The Detroit Zoo continues to monitor the gorilla troop and share updates on its social media channels.