The Cutest Naming Contest of the Year

In case you haven’t heard, we recently welcomed a new baby chimp here at the Zoo. The little girl was born to first-time mom Rozi on June 10, 2024. Rozi and her infant did well initially, but after a few weeks the animal care staff noticed a decline in the infant’s health and became concerned that she was not receiving enough of her mother’s milk. The Zoo’s veterinarians were able to stabilize her and keepers have been providing around the clock care until the baby is strong enough to rejoin Rozi and the troop!

Notice how we haven’t mentioned the baby chimp’s name yet? That’s because we are hosting an unbelievably cute fundraiser, with a twist. Donors are invited to make a contribution in honor of the name they like most for our newest bundle of joy. Please consider supporting the Zoo and the baby’s around-the-clock care by helping us decide what to call our newest addition.

Read her full story


The Names

Our chimpanzee care team has come up with botanically-themed name options, as mom Rozi’s (ROSE-ee) name means “rose” in Swahili.

– Astrid

– Iris

– Ivy

Donate & Vote


Naming Contest Details:

  • Each donation will be put towards the chosen name. The name with the most donations at the end of the contest will be the winner.
  • Donations support the newborn’s around-the-clock care and the Zoo’s conservation efforts for endangered species
  • Contest will end at 11:59pm on Wednesday, July 31, 2024. The winning name will be announced August 1st.
  • Each donor will receive a thank you email with special video content of the baby chimpanzee.

Questions? Contact a member of our development team at development@marylandzoo.org or 443.552.5285.