Orphan Chimp Meets Adoptive Mom for the First Time

With wide eyes and an open jaw, a baby chimpanzee named Ruben is in absolute awe after being introduced to Kito, his adoptive mother. 

Little Ruben lost his mother Rukiya when he was less than a day old. After her death, he was rejected by his father. 

In addition to being an orphaned animal, Ruben was treated roughly by other primates at the Florida Zoo where he lived. 

Zookeepers decided they needed to find him a new family immediately. 

Ruben was finally introduced to Kito, his adoptive mother, in Oklahoma at the Oklahoma City Zoo after zookeepers conducted a strenuous search of U.S. zoological parks. 

Oklahoma has a successful surrogacy program for abandoned animals. 

Ruben is now living a happy and healthy life with his new mother and siblings.

"The big benefit of being accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums is collaboration with other zoos. This is especially true for the well-being of our animals, such as being able to provide the long-term social health of this infant chimp, Ruben," said Laura Bottaro, Oklahoma City Zoo's mammal curator. 

We're so happy that Ruben is getting all the love and attention he deserves. 

This little chimp absolutely adores his new mother, Kito. We can't wait to see what he's going to look like when he grows up.

Ruben can now sleep soundly knowing he has a loving home.