Introducing Kokamo and Her Son , Monroe
Kokamo, a Silverback Gorilla at San Diego Safari Park is a new Mom. As you can see, she is rather dexterous when it comes to keeping her son on hand. Little Monroe seems to be enjoying the ride even if he is seeing the world upside down most of the time. When Monroe is a little older and stronger, he will be carried on her back. But for now, she has to hold him tight.
Kokamo came to San Diego from the Colorado Zoo in 2010 as part of the Association of Zoos Species Survival Plan. She was sired by Winston a long time favorite Silverback Gorilla that was the very first born gorilla at Safari Park in 2000.

Monroe is seen here one month after his birth at the San Diego Safari Park born Jun 17,2011. Monroe was named after Dr. Lee Monroe a former president of the San Diego Zoo Global and chair of the San Diego Zoo's research committee.
One of things I love most about living in and being a REALTOR® in San Diego is the Zoo and Safari Park. I love learning about these animals and as much of the inner working of the zoo as I can learn. I never tire of seeing these marvelous animals and I so appreciate the wonderful works done in conservation of these endangered animals. I hope my photos of them will always be welcomed here in the Rain. When I am at one of the parks , even while trying to get the best photo I can, I still feel like a little kid discovering each of them as though it were for the first time. I marvel at their antics and I am totally fascinated with them and all the efforts made to keep them healthy and happy in their home here in San Diego.
For my clients that move or relocate here to San Diego, I always make a big fuss about encouraging them to becoming members of the Zoological Society and taking advantage of these two most important San Diego treasures, the Safari Park and the Zoo. Annual memberships are so affordable and you can visit either of the parks any time you like. And it certainly makes collecting photos of these animal treasures and catching them when they least suspect someone is watching.


William - great photo of Kokomo and her son. I love the frame (Picnik?) and monochromatic matte. It gives it an elegant feel. San Diego is way cool for many reasons, but I agree, the Zoo is a huge highlight for the area.
It has been too long since I have been to the San Diego Zoo. I’m adding that to the bucket list.
Hi Debb, Thank you. Yes, I used Picnik to frame the photo. Kristine Ginsberg started this trend of framing the photos and now it just seems to be the right thing to do to make the photos stand out in the post.
Hi David, It just keeps getting better and better and thankfully Philanthropists are alive and well here in San Diego. The Zoo and Safari has almost replaced themselves with fabulous new animal habitats throughout the parks. There are quite a few and some other new ones are being planned. It remains one of the best Zoos in the world and is so accessible.
Great photo, William. I haven't been to the San Diego Zoo for a long time. Guess Kokamo knows this is the only way to keep track of the kid.
Jeff
Hi Jeff, She and kid live at Safari Park, :-). She asked for you and said she missed you so much, the last time I was there. You oughta pay them a visit. She did remind me to tell you, no baby presents please. He just refuses to wear the things others have have gifted, LMAO.
William - That is an astonishing photo. Isn't it amazing how some animal mothers take such good care of their babies. Is there any word about whether Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro is lobbying to have her diaper legislation extended to benefit Kokamo and her baby yet . . .LOL
CONGRATULATIONS on having this photoblog FEATURED in the Photos group!
William, WOW, what an incredible photograph! Your photography skills have come a VERY long way. That's not to say your photography was not good a few years ago but now it is AWESOME!
Hi Marchel, How are you? Thank you so much, tha was a terrific compliment and I really appreciate it.
William, Amazing photo!
Good Morning Keith, Thank you, The Zoo provides such wonderful inspiration for any photographer.
Good Morning William,
That is a spectacular photo! WOW I am overwealmed and such a nice job of framing too. Thanks for sharing. San Diego Zoo is my favorite and yes you are so lucky to have it in your city.
Happy Halloween.
You are so lucky to live so close to such a great zoo. Love the picture William.
Hi Kristen, Thank you so much. I have grown even more fond of the Zoo since I started taking photos and really got to see it and the wonderful occupants through the lens.
Hi Debra, Thank you. She looks to ge a good Mother, even though she carries him upside down,:-)
William: Kokamo and Monroe... what a great mother/son picture. The first thing that hit me when I saw this picture of Mom and her boy was... wow... how "human." After thinking about it... it just makes sense. It's the transcendence of motherhood and mother-love... regardless of the species.
And then yes... I could see these same human/motherhood qualities slowly evolving over the centuries... over the eons... from Silverback Gorilla to humans. Gives me chills. What magnificent creatures.
Seriously, William... thank you so much for sharing. August 25, 2012