Last month, we were treated to a new baby hippo and new baby gorilla at Animal Kingdom, born one day after the other. At long last, our new gorilla friend has a name.
Is there anything cuter than baby animals? Disney World is one of the best places to see the new birth of everything from local ducks and bunnies to exotic ostriches, lions, and, yes, gorillas.
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On Tuesday, July 13, mother western lowland gorilla Azizi gave birth to a beautiful baby girl, fathered by Gino. Azizi, Gino, and the baby’s older brother Cory all made the new baby feel quite welcome right away.
New baby gorilla at Animal Kingdom. Photo courtesy of Disney Parks Blog
But Animal Kingdom’s newest gorilla officially became part of the family when they gave her a name.
🦍 Naming the Baby Gorilla
Photo courtesy of Disney Parks Blog
But because this is Disney, they didn’t just come right out and tell us her name. Instead, primate carnivore keepers like Kerri D’Ancicco formed the letters of the gorilla’s name in rice cereal around the habitat, then wrapped it up.
This allowed the gorillas themselves to reveal the name in a game that was also mentally stimulating for them. As they found the wrapping covering the rice cereal (which obviously had their noses twitching), they tore it off, revealing the name to guests.
🦍 And Her Name Is … Ada
Photo courtesy of Disney Parks Blog
The new baby gorilla at Animal Kingdom bears the name Ada, which means “first daughter.” The name “Ada” comes from Nigeria, where it is used by the Igbo people.
If you want to say hello to Ada and her family, just hike the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail at Animal Kingdom. Ada has been known to cuddle with mama Azizi right next to the glass, giving guests a front-row view to this important bonding time. Cory often visits as well.
Do you love baby animals at Disney World? Then you’ll want a back issue of our April 2021 magazine, all about nature at Disney World. Order yours for just $12!
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🦍 WATCH: New Baby Gorilla’s Name Revealed
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