The Assiniboine Park Zoo is asking for the public's assistance in naming the newest member of the Zoo's white-handed gibbon family.

The young gibbon was born on Oct. 23. She is the third child of Maya and Samson, who were matched in 2017 on a recommendation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan Program.

“Here at the Zoo, our gibbons act as ambassadors for their species, which is endangered due primarily to severe habitat loss and hunting,” said Dr. Chris Enright, Senior Director of Zoological Operations, Animal Management and Conservation, Assiniboine Park Conservancy. “Gibbons are charismatic, active, and engaging creatures, and we hope this little one will inspire our Zoo visitors to take action to protect wildlife around the world and here in Canada.”

The Zoo's animal care team believes the new gibbon is a female, but that has yet to be confirmed.

A short list of names has been identified by the Zoo's care team, with all the options starting with the letters M and S. They include:

  • Minerva – the Roman goddess of wisdom
  • Maavi – meaning precious
  • Malai – meaning garland of flowers
  • Supanee – meaning fast

Voters have until midnight, Sunday, Nov. 19, to access the online naming poll.