Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Online dating proves success for gorillas

Melanie Leather
Thursday 26 March 2009 13:12 EDT
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Chessington Zoo was today celebrating the birth of a baby gorilla following the successful use of online dating.

Western Lowland gorillas Buu and Damisi were introduced last summer after Damisa was identified as a breeding male for Buu. Zookeepers used the Stud Book, the equivalent of an online dating agency for gorillas, to source the perfect match.

The computer database provides access to the entire European gorilla population and includes family trees and the history of every gorilla.

Keeper Michael Riozzi said: “We are so happy for Buu and Damisi who hit it off straight away. Buu is a fantastic first-time mum and their baby is a welcome addition to our group; one of the most successful breeding groups of Western Lowland Gorillas in Europe."

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in