Mama Chimpanzee Welcomes New Baby Boy via C-Section at the Zoo

Wichita, KS – Way to go, Mahale! Mama Chimpanzee Mahale gave birth to her baby boy on Nov. 15, via C- section at Sedgwick County Zoo

A relatable story to many moms, Mahale labored through the morning and the animal care team noticed changes in her progress and decided to intervene surgically and proceed with a c-section to deliver her baby safely. 

Drs. Laura Whisler and Janna Chibry of College Hill OB-GYN were on hand to perform the cesarean section with the Zoo’s veterinary team. The pair have consulted with Sedgwick County Zoo veterinarians on all great ape pregnancies for the past decade – most recently delivering Sumatran Orangutan, Lily, via C- section in 2018.

Mama Mahale is recovering very well behind-the-scenes. Her baby Chimpanzee is doing very well and will be reunited with his mom soon. He received treatment and bottle feedings from the animal care team overnight due to low oxygen levels, but the animal care team believe he will be ready for his mama soon for that necessary bonding!

Mom and baby will remain behind-the- scenes at the zoo until it’s clear that they are both healthy and bonded. 

This is the third offspring for Mahale, 28, and an important birth for the chimpanzee population. Chimpanzees are listed as endangered and wild populations are decreasing due to habitat loss and poaching for bushmeat.

The Sedgwick County Zoo is dedicated to inspiring respect and conservation for wildlife and wild places. Home to nearly 3,000 animals of more than 400 different species, SCZ has been recognized with national and international awards for its support of field conservation programs and successful breeding of rare and endangered species. Opened in 1971, it has been ranked among the best zoos in the country and is the No. 1 outdoor family tourist attraction in Kansas.


page2image6213072The Sedgwick County Zoo is a not-for-profit organization, accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). Look for the AZA logo whenever you visit a zoo or aquarium as your assurance that you are supporting a facility dedicated to providing excellent care for animals and a better future for all living things. With its more than 200 accredited members, AZA is a global leader in wildlife conservation and your link to helping animals in their native habitats.
Angela Green
Angela is the founder of Wichita Mom, the premier parenting website and digital guide for families as they navigate life in Wichita, KS. She is a wife, business owner, avid reader, proud gymnastics & dance mom, Peloton lover, and is always planning her next trip.