The only gorilla born in Spain in 2025 takes its first steps

The only specimen of the plains gorilla - a species listed as critically endangered - born in Spain in 2025 and the second in Europe, is taking its first steps in the place where it was born, Fuengirola, when it reaches four months of age, a key stage in its development. Ernie, the name chosen by voting in homage to the historic 'silverback' that also lived in Bioparc Fuengirola for years, has captured all the attention in the zoo since its birth to observe and study the young specimen. The gorilla infant, which is male, begins to timidly separate from his mother and explore his immediate surroundings. Among leaves and branches, still under constant surveillance, Ernie initiates his first interactions with the environment, an essential behavior in the learning of the species. This progress, although still incipient, reflects a positive evolution in a particularly delicate phase. In these first months, the dependence on the mother is total and will last for years, but small gestures like these first movements or interest in the environment mark the beginning of his autonomy. Just as has recently happened with other young animals in conservation parks, whose rapid adaptation and development have allowed their gradual integration into the group, Ernie's case points in the same direction: appropriate growth that reinforces expectations about his future. "His development is very positive and in line with what is expected for his age. He already shows curiosity about the environment and begins to interact progressively, although always under the protection of his mother, which is fundamental in this phase," state the technical team from Bioparc Fuengirola. His presence also continues to have a direct impact on the dynamics of the breeding group, which favors social cohesion and activates essential natural behaviors. Bioparc Fuengirola houses one of the most significant western plains gorilla breeding groups within the European conservation program (EEP), and it is also the only center in Andalusia participating in this international initiative.