Primate handlers at Taronga Zoo are celebrating the birth of a western lowland gorilla.

Born six days ago, the baby has been seen clinging tightly to mother Frala's chest as she walks around the gorilla enclosure looking for food.

Frala has kept the newborn in a close embrace since the birth, so zoo keepers have not been able to identify the baby's gender.

It is the seventh gorilla she has given birth to and the delivery was trouble-free, according to zoo staff.

Primate keeper Lisa Ridley said early signs showed both mother and baby were doing well.

"The baby is strong, healthy, [has] good colouration, gripping on really tight, and we've seen a lot of suckling, which is a really good sign," Ms Ridley said.

"Both of them are bonding well.

"As a good mum, she's keeping the baby close to her stomach, so it makes it very hard for us keepers.

"But don't worry, we're all anticipating [she will release the baby eventually].

The baby is the seventh for mother Frala. ( AAP: Dean Lewins )

"We can't wait to find out [what the sex it], because then we get to pick names."

It is the latest addition to the gorilla population after the birth of Mjukuu seven months ago and means a playmate for each to grow up with and help build socialisation skills.

The birth is also crucial to the maintenance of the western lowland population worldwide.

There are 100,000 of the species remaining in the wild, but they are under threat from hunting, poaching and infectious diseases such as Ebola.

"Having a new baby on board not only strengthens the family group that we've got here but these guys are ambassadors for their species," Ms Ridley said.

"To have this new baby and the six-month-old is putting groundwork for the future.

"[It is] very significant, really good opportunity for our breeding program.

"We are involved internationally in the breeding program so it's making awareness to the public of the plight of what's going on with gorillas out in the wild."