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Doctors Perform First Gorilla C-Section in Seattle Zoo

8/23/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. veterinary and human doctors performed the first gorilla cesarean section at Seattle’s Woodland Park Zoo.
Dr. Emily Norland, chief of obstetrics at Providence Swedish First Hill, led the surgical team.
Low amniotic fluid and a slowing heart rate prompted the emergency C-section.
The 5.4-pound male infant was born in May 2026 after 36 weeks of gestation.
Caretakers swapped the newborns between mothers, keeping all four gorillas thriving.

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Story summary

U.S. veterinary and human doctors performed the first gorilla cesarean section at Seattle’s Woodland Park Zoo.
Dr. Emily Norland, chief of obstetrics at Providence Swedish First Hill, led the surgical team.
Low amniotic fluid and a slowing heart rate prompted the emergency C-section.
The 5.4-pound male infant was born in May 2026 after 36 weeks of gestation.
Caretakers swapped the newborns between mothers, keeping all four gorillas thriving.