Baby Gorilla Jameela to Move to Cleveland Zoo for Surrogate Care
After unsuccessful attempts at surrogacy at Fort Worth Zoo, Jameela, the first gorilla born by Cesarean section there, is set to leave for a new home next week.
- Jameela, the first gorilla born by Cesarean section at the Fort Worth Zoo, has been under constant care since her birth but failed to bond with potential surrogate mothers.
- The Fort Worth Zoo decided to transfer Jameela to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, known for its success in surrogacy, in hopes of finding her a surrogate mother.
- Over 50 zoo staff members have been involved in Jameela's care, using methods like wearing felt ponchos to mimic motherly contact and making gorilla noises for comfort.
- The move highlights the complexity of gorilla social dynamics and the importance of gorilla-to-gorilla upbringing during formative years.
- The Fort Worth community has shown overwhelming support for Jameela, with many expressing a lifelong interest in her wellbeing and care.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram 
Cleveland Plain Dealer 