The newborn baby gorilla rests in the arms of its mother, Asha. Photos: Courtesy of Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
A baby gorilla was born this week at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo — the first in nearly 13 years.
Why it matters: The newborn is a critically endangered Western lowland gorilla, a species whose numbers continue to fall due to habitat loss, poaching and disease.
Zoom in: The "bundle of joy" and its mom, Asha — a 32-year-old and seasoned mother of three — are healthy and bonding, the zoo said.
What they're saying: Asha has been "sitting and lying down with the baby and gently patting its back, which is really adorable," zookeeper Ashton Asbury said in a statement.
What we're watching: The zoo hasn't confirmed the baby's sex or weight yet. Following tradition, a name will come after the baby turns one month old.
If you go: Mother and baby can be viewed in the Primate World exhibit as long as they continue to do well.
