Dublin Zoo has announced the birth of a baby western lowland gorilla.

The new arrival is the second baby gorilla born in the zoo this year.

Born to mother Vana and father Bangui, the new addition arrived at the zoo on Saturday, October 12.

Dublin Zoo said that keepers have been unable to determine the sex of the infant as Vana has been keeping the baby close to her chest since the birth.

The infant weighs around 2-2.5kg and is Vana's first born.

The newborn is the second off-spring of father Bangui since his arrival at Dublin Zoo, joining half-sister Asali who was born in April 2019.

"We’re delighted to announce that a second baby gorilla has been born at Dublin Zoo this year!" said Aisling Kenneally, Zoo Keeper at Dublin Zoo.

"As western lowland gorillas are critically endangered, it’s amazing that we have had not only one but two new births within a few months.

"Vana is an amazing mum and is extremely protective of her little one.

"Vana and the baby were introduced to the rest of the female gorillas yesterday and are settling in well.

"Big sister Asali, has shown huge interest in her younger sister and the duo have been bonding over the past couple of days.

"We’re so excited to see both youngsters grow up and play together."

The Zoo said that they will soon be hosting a naming competition, giving the public a chance to name the baby gorilla and win a prize of a family day pass.