Some moments don’t need narration to make an impact. In a tender clip from Zoo Knoxville, a mother gorilla named Kumi gently supports her baby son as he figures out how to stand on his own two legs.
With steady hands and calm patience, Kumi helps him balance, guiding him upright in a way that feels deeply familiar to anyone who’s ever watched a parent teach a child something new. It’s quiet, powerful, and filled with unmistakable love. Clips like these always bring tears to my eyes, and I’m sure I’m not alone.
In the gorgeous clip shared by @zooknoxville, the caption reads, “New Year’s resolution #1: learn to stand up for mom. If you need a little motivation—or just a sweet moment—to start your year, watch Kumi’s baby boy learn to use his legs like a big gorilla.” People in the comments adore this beautiful mother-son duo, and one person said, “Her admiring her baby all the way down to her baby’s wrist and then she kissed the baby… melts my heart.”
Related: Gorilla Parents Proudly Show Off Their Adorable New Baby
Another person added, “The way they look at each other is beyond beautiful. Momma loves her baby, and the baby knows it. Their connection is undeniable.” Someone else replied, “You can see the love in her eyes for her baby.”
The clip has sparked curiosity about the zoo’s newest resident, and for good reason. Kumi’s baby is the latest addition to the gorilla troop, and moments like this offer a rare glimpse into his early development.
About Kumi’s Baby Gorilla
According to Zoo Knoxville’s website, Kumi is the newest gorilla to join the troop. Petite and pretty, she is an adult female born and raised at the Bronx Zoo. Kumi moved here to breed with Bantu and grow the family. She is generally shy and avoids conflict, but enjoys interacting with keepers and training. On November 20, Zoo Knoxville announced the birth of a healthy Western Lowland Gorilla infant to 27-year-old Kumi! The birth occurred on Wednesday morning around 8:15 a.m., and both Kumi and her newborn are doing well. This is Kumi’s first offspring with Silverback Bantu and her first birth since joining Zoo Knoxville in 2024.
“Each gorilla birth brings new hope for the future of this critically endangered species. This new arrival is an important step forward for Western Lowland Gorillas,” said President and CEO Bill Street.
Kumi has access to her habitat with the gorilla troop, which means guests may have the opportunity to see her caring for her infant during their visit, depending on where she chooses to spend her time. The new baby has yet to be named.
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This story was originally published by Parade Pets on Jan 6, 2026, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.