In the Heart of Chester Zoo: Chimp Alice Welcomes a New Baby! #BabyNews

Chimpanzee Alice welcomed a newborn, featured in a video. The perineal swelling observed in Alice is a natural occurrence, attributed to hormonal changes. Alice with her first baby Chimpanzee Alice welcomed a new baby on the 29th of December 2023. She kept the newborn close to her chest, allowing only a few glimpses of the baby’s head. Due to the cold weather, Alice mostly stayed indoors, venturing outside only briefly on a couple of occasions. Alice, who is partially bald, exhibits substantial perineal swelling. People often inquire if this is normal, and indeed, it is. The perineal swelling, or sexual swelling, is influenced by hormonal changes during and after birth. This natural occurrence is a vital part of their reproductive cycle. It tends to become more pronounced during the fertile period, playing a role in signalling reproductive readiness and influencing social dynamics within the chimpanzee community. In addition to caring for her newborn, Alic