MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The Milwaukee County Zoo has confirmed the birth of a bonobo baby, marking its first bonobo birth since 2016. Bonobos are endangered Great Apes native to the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The zoo announced on Wednesday, July 2 that the baby was born Friday, May 30 to mom Elema, who arrived from the Columbus Zoo in 2021.

The baby is Elema’s first offspring, and the 16th bonobo born at the zoo. The troop, which numbers 19 bonobos, supported Elema during the birth, reportedly gathering around her. The zoo says that the troop will play a supportive role in the social development of the baby for many years.

Visitors are able to see Elema and her baby in the Apes of Africa outdoor habitat, weather permitting.

More details are available through the Zoological Society of Milwaukee online.