VIDEO: Little Rock Zoo breaks ground on major expansion

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – The Little Rock Zoo gave an update on the progress of one of its newest chimpanzees.

Zoo staff said baby chimp Amali wants to be more adventurous, but her mother, Kianga, is preventing her from becoming too independent.

Staff said Kianga is a helicopter mom and very protective.

“Kianga is a phenomenal mom; she just takes her role very seriously,” zoo officials said.

Other chimps at the zoo are curious and gently interacting with Amali, staff said. Staff said chimp Jumoke has been seen holding her hand, and chimp Kendi has groomed her head.

Amali was born Tuesday, Aug. 5. A few weeks later, the zoo held a gender reveal and followed with a name announcement.

For more on the Little Rock Zoo and hours to visit,

See Full Page