Zoo Atlanta welcomes new baby gorilla

ATLANTA — Zoo Atlanta introduced its new baby gorilla this past week, whose name has Atlanta ties.

The infant gorilla, named Willie B III was born on April 24 by his mother Shalia.

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The gorilla is named after his father, Willie B., Jr., and his legendary grandfather, the late Willie B.

The original gorilla Willie B. arrived in Atlanta in 1961 and was named in honor of then-mayor William B. Hartsfield.

“Zoo Atlanta is very proud to have our newest baby gorilla continue a name tradition that is so meaningful and beloved for generations of Atlantans. Few Atlanta institutions are as unique to our city as Willie B.,” said Raymond B. King, Zoo Atlanta President and CEO. “Through the lens of Willie B.’s life, we are able to see the story of Zoo Atlanta’s dramatic evolution. With the arrival of Willie B., III, we have the opportunity to share and celebrate that story, both with those who grew up with it, and with those who have never heard it before.”

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Willie B. passed away in 2000 at age 42. His memorial was attended by more than 5,000 people, according to the Zoo.

Zoo visitors can look for the infant in Gorilla Habitat 4 in the Zoo’s Ford African Rain Forest. The zoo warns that sightings are not guaranteed.

In celebration of the anniversary year and of the birth of his newest grandchild, Zoo Atlanta plans to host “Willie B. Day” later this summer.

Willie B., III is the 25th gorilla to be born at the Zoo.

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