Birthday celebration as baby gorilla recovers.

A BABY gorilla celebrated his first birthday yesterday after being released from intensive care following a severe bout of gastroenteritis.

Louna had an eight-day separation from his social group at Port Lympne wild animal park near Hythe, Kent, to allow him to overcome dehydration.

Although vital to his treatment, the separation risked him being rejected by his 17-year-old mother, FouFou, a spokesman for the wild animal park said.

Despite an initial lack of interest, FouFou eventually began to show signs of maternal affection towards Louna.

And now, with him firmly settled back into his family group, Louna's appetite has returned, just in time to celebrate his first birthday with special sponge and fruit cakes.

Yesterday a party was held at the animal park, which was set up by the late millionaire John Aspinall to protect and breed a range of rare and endangered species.

Eddie Kemsley, head of communications and business development, said: "Louna's first birthday is not only a special landmark for him given his recent spell in intensive care, but also a true testament to the skill employed by veterinary staff and keepers."

CAPTION(S):

Baby gorrilla Louna takes a ride on mum FouFou at Port Lympne Wild Animal Park near Hythe in Kent, following being released from intensive care after suffering a severe bout of gastroenteritis