Facebook, Sedgwick County ZooA mother, especially someone who had just given birth, longs for nothing except to hold her baby in her arms.
Meet Mahale
Unsplash28-year-old Mahele is one of the most beloved chimpanzees at Sedwick County Zoo (SCA) in Wichita, Kansas, and she’s about to give birth to her baby.
Complicated Delivery
UnsplashZookeeper Devin Turner kept an eye on Mahale while she was in labor. When the chimp’s labor stalled because of complications, the staff decided to give her an emergency C-section.
Intensive Care
Facebook, Sedgwick County ZooDevin got to hold Kucheza, the newborn chimp, after he was born, but he was having trouble breathing, requiring him to be given around-the-clock care.
Two Days Apart
Facebook, Sedgwick County ZooThe staff gave Kucheza oxygen treatments and bottle feedings. Once his health was stabilized, Mahale was finally able to meet her baby.
The First Time
Facebook, Sedgwick County ZooMahale was led into an enclosure while carrying her blanket with her. She looked over at a soft cushion where Kucheza was lying, but she didn’t recognize him at first.
Here I Am
Facebook, Sedgwick County ZooWhen the baby moved and raised his hand, Mahale immediately rushed over to her baby and scooped him up into her arms.
Precious Moment
Facebook, Sedgwick County ZooMahale was whimpering while holding baby Kucheza. She was probably relieved to finally get to see and hold him after having no idea what happened to her newborn for two days.
Furry Friends
UnsplashEveryone at the zoo was celebrating the life of Kucheza as the last chimp pregnancy at the zoo resulted in a stillbirth in 2019, and although he was already Mahale’s third baby, Kucheza is her firstborn at the zoo.
Watch Mahale’s emotional moment with her newborn baby in the video below.
Watch Video Here:
