Twycross Zoo have welcomed a new addition to the pack as baby bonobo is born

This is the first bonobo born in the UK since 2019.

Twycross Zoo has announced the arrival of a baby bonobo.

Jeroen Stevens, Bonobo EEP Coordinator said: “The birth of this bonobo is reason to celebrate because they are an endangered species. The world is continuing to experience rapid losses of species and habitats. Bonobo populations are undergoing significant declines due to habitat loss and hunting and are becoming increasingly small and fragmented."

Born to Cheka (age 25) the baby has been named Upendi, inspired by a love song from The Lion King II, and ‘Upendo’ which means love in Swahili.

Twycross Zoo discovered that Cheka was pregnant during a regular health check.

The zookeepers don't currently know the gender of the baby however they are hoping they will be able to get close enough to find out soon.

Dr Rebecca Biddle, Head of Life Sciences at Twycross Zoo said: "Twycross Zoo is home to 10% of the entire European population of bonobos so it’s vital that we work closely with other EAZA zoos to ensure that this population is sustainable for the long term.

All of the great apes are very different, however, bonobos are female-led and known for their caring and affectionate nature. As a group, they are always quick to make up with one another and their nurturing behaviour sees them holding hands and hugging, which is why World Bonobo Day also falls on Valentine’s Day."