Miracle of new life: UK welcomes its only bonobo infant, setting a scientific milestone

Science becomes even more remarkable when something unexpected occurs. Twycross Zoo in Leicestershire recently documented a rare scientific milestone. On September 25 of 2025, mother Yuli gave birth to the UK’s first bonobo infant.

Yuli was imported from Vallée Des Singes in France for conservation purposes. The birth supports an EU-led campaign to conserve endangered species.

Bonobos are humanity’s closest living relatives and share over ninety-eight percent of our genetic material. Each birth offers essential data on their biology as well as their evolutionary traits.

A Species on the Edge

Bonobos are classified as “Endangered” on the IUCN Red List. Deforestation, poaching, and habitat loss continue to threaten them worldwide. Each new infant strengthens the population and contributes to scientific research.

Little baby Bonobo with mother Yuli. (Image: Adam Kay/Twycross Zoo/SWNS)

Researchers examine social behaviour, cognition and genetics in captivity. Coordinated conservation efforts by Twycross Zoo, in collaboration with projects in the Democratic Republic of Congo, strengthen both captive and wild populations.

Observation Insights

This infant provides scientists with unique opportunities to study development and maternal care. Researchers observe early interactions and social learning within the bonobo troop. Behavioural studies inform conservation methods and offer insights into wild populations.

Future of this little Bonobo

Bonobos are humanity's closest living relatives, sharing over 98% of our DNA. Feeding routines, play and social bonding provide critical data on species survival. The infant bonobo explores its surroundings under its mother’s protective guidance. Collected data could inform future interventions and aid species protection. Although small in scale, this birth represents a significant step forward for global conservation efforts.