In Colorado Springs, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo invites the public to name its newest Western Lowland Gorilla baby born on July 21, 2025, to mother Asha and father Goma. This critically endangered infant marks the first gorilla birth at the zoo in nearly 13 years, and fans can vote with donations until October 9 to support primate conservation.
A Joyful Arrival After Years of Waiting
The baby gorilla arrived early on July 21, sparking excitement among zoo staff and visitors alike. Asha, a 33 year old resident since her own birth at the zoo in 1992, has now welcomed her third child, while Goma, 34, celebrates his first as a father after joining the zoo in 2016 through a breeding program.
This birth holds special meaning for conservation efforts. Western Lowland Gorillas face severe threats in the wild, including habitat loss from mining and poaching, with their population dropping by over 60 percent in recent decades. The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo plays a key role in the Species Survival Plan, helping to boost numbers in captivity and raise awareness.
Zoo keepers report the baby is thriving, nursing well and clinging tightly to Asha. Recent videos show the little one exploring his surroundings, bringing smiles to all who watch.
How the Naming Contest Works
The zoo launched the naming drive on September 17 to engage the community while raising funds for a new Primate World habitat. Each vote requires a minimum donation of five dollars, and all proceeds go toward expanding spaces for gorillas, orangutans, and other primates.
Donations can be any amount above five dollars, allowing supporters to contribute more if they wish. The contest runs through October 9 at 11:59 p.m., with the winning name announced on October 15 via the zoo’s website, emails to members, and social media.
This approach not only names the baby but also educates people on the importance of primate habitats. Similar contests at other zoos have raised thousands for conservation, proving public involvement can make a real difference.
Meet the Name Options and Their Meanings
Keepers selected three charming names inspired by the baby’s personality and popular culture. Here are the options:
- Ryder: This name honors the baby’s early talent for riding on his mother’s back, starting at a younger age than most.
- Sully: A tribute to the lovable, furry monster from the movie Monsters Inc., known for his big heart and bright personality.
- Abu: Drawn from the clever and loyal monkey in Aladdin, reflecting the baby’s playful and skilled nature.
These choices blend fun with the baby’s traits, making the vote exciting for families. Past naming events at the zoo, like one in 2012, drew widespread participation and highlighted community bonds with wildlife.
Current Standings in the Race
As the deadline approaches, Abu holds a slight lead based on the latest tallies from October 7. The competition remains close, with strong support for all three names.
| Name | Votes | Total Donations |
|---|---|---|
| Abu | 167 | $4,208.25 |
| Sully | 124 | $2,686.00 |
| Ryder | 114 | $2,465.00 |
These figures show how donations add up quickly, already surpassing eight thousand dollars overall. With just one day left, a surge in votes could shift the outcome, much like recent zoo fundraisers that saw last minute boosts from social media shares.
The funds will directly improve living conditions, including larger enclosures and enrichment activities that mimic wild habitats. This ties into broader efforts, such as recycling electronics to reduce coltan mining impacts on gorilla forests.
Why This Matters for Conservation and Fun
Beyond the cute factor, this event spotlights the urgent need to protect Western Lowland Gorillas, whose wild numbers hover around 360,000 but continue to decline. Zoos like Cheyenne Mountain contribute through breeding and education, with this baby serving as an ambassador for the cause.
Visitors often share stories of how seeing the family up close inspires them to learn more about endangered species. Recent trends show increased interest in wildlife news, with similar births at other facilities drawing millions of views online.
The contest also entertains while solving real problems, like funding habitat upgrades without relying on taxes, as the zoo operates as a nonprofit. Experts note that public engagement like this boosts conservation donations by up to 30 percent in participating zoos.
Share your thoughts on the names in the comments below and encourage friends to vote before it’s too late. Your participation could help secure the winning name and support these amazing animals.
