A face only a mother could love

Photo / Greg Bowker

First-time mother Ayisha is getting into the swing of parenthood with the arrival of her baby at Auckland Zoo two weeks ago.

The baby baboon, whose sex isn't known yet, will soon be able to ride around on Ayisha's back and is expected to be independent within three months. Ayisha is allowing another female, Kito, close contact with the newborn.

Auckland Zoo spokeswoman Jane Healey said this was a great learning opportunity for Kito, who would hopefully soon start breeding.

Visitors can see the family in their Pridelands enclosure.