Baby gorilla reunites with mother after successful treatment for pneumonia

SAN DIEGO - The San Diego Zoo says an infant gorilla that was successfully treated for pneumonia after a cesarean section delivery is in her mother's arms for the first time.

Zoo officials say the 12-day-old female was physically introduced to her mother, Imani, for the first time Monday morning. Since then the 18-year-old Imani has been constantly cradling and carrying her baby.

The new mom began nursing three hours after meeting the baby. Zoo staff will monitor the baby to make sure that the newborn gorilla receives enough nutrition.

Nadine Lamberski, associate director of veterinary services at the park, said last week the unnamed gorilla is developing quickly and normally after undergoing surgery for a collapsed lung.

The gorilla was delivered March 12 at the zoo's Safari Park.