Mashika is a western lowland gorilla born at the ABQ BioPark on August 10, 2022. Her name means “born during the rainy season” in Swahili, which is fitting as she was born during the monsoon season. She is the daughter of Samantha, a first-time mom who successfully raised Mashika with the care of the dedicated primate team at the BioPark. Mashika’s birth was significant as it was the first gorilla birth at ABQ BioPark in nearly 20 years, contributing to the conservation of this critically endangered species. Mashika is known for her curious and playful nature and is part of a troop led by silverback Cojo. The family includes Samantha, Mashika, Nia Lewa, her baby, and Kojo, highlighting the BioPark’s role in the species survival plan for western lowland gorillas.
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