Mogo Zoo’s newest gorilla, baby Kendi set to be a crowd favourite

She’s been enthralling visitors for the last two months, and finally Mogo Wildlife Park’s newest addition has a name.

She’s been enthralling visitors for the last two months, and finally Mogo Wildlife Park’s newest addition has a name.

Baby gorilla Kendi, named by the south coast zoo’s animal care team, is fast becoming a crowd favourite alongside mum Kipenzi, dad Kisane and two-year-old brother Kaius.

Zookeeper Chad Staples has a close bond with the family of gorillas and says there’s a reason they’re so popular with visitors.

“There is something about gorillas, who are so similar to us, that makes people attached and brings fascination,” Mr Staples told The Daily Telegraph.

“(Kendi) is very alert and curious already. (She’s) very strong and people are noticing that, physically, she has developed so quickly.”

Baby Kendi was born on 8th February 2025. Pictured with Mum Kipenzi. Picture: Supplied

The zoo is home to six gorillas including Kendi, who was born on February 8.

Since then, the baby has been inseparable from her mother.

Mr Staples said big brother Kaius had been “very interested straight away” in Kendi, “but he wasn’t allowed too close too soon”.

“He is always around and always checking in on mum, but in a few months he will love the interactions he gets from Kendi,” Mr Staples said.
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Originally published as Mogo Zoo’s newest gorilla, baby Kendi set to be a crowd favourite