Dudley zoo welcomes new baby baboon

Gelada gestation is usually around six months and mothers will carry the baby on their stomach for the first few weeks. Credit: Dudley Zoo

Dudley Zoo has welcomed a new baby gelada baboon, who has been spotted for the first time since being born in October.

The youngster was born on October 19 to first-time mum, nine year-old Jimma and dad, Ebano, aged 11 and can be spotted in their half-acre natural hillside enclosure.

Primate Keeper, Jade Reddall, said: “Jimma is doing a fantastic job nursing and carrying the newborn and after helping Addis and Tana care for Billie and Ambo for the last two years, she will have picked up a thing or two."

Gelada gestation is usually around six months and mothers will carry the baby on their stomach for the first few weeks. Credit: Dudley Zoo

“Dad’s also being protective over his youngest offspring and the baby seems very alert. We’ve even spotted Billie and Ambo both grooming the little one, so they’re all doing the right thing and we’re all excited with the newest addition.”

Keepers are yet to determine the youngster’s sex, but say they are busy thinking of names.

Gelada gestation is usually around six months and mothers will carry the baby on their stomach for the first few weeks, before transferring it to their back.

The youngster will begin to gain more independence around five-months-old.