Yuanbao and Hangbao. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]

Hangzhou Safari Park recently welcomed a new member: Hangbao, the first white-cheeked gibbon bred at the park.

The northern white-cheeked gibbon is a rare species and is classified as a first-level protected animal in China.

Hangbao was born on Jan 2 this year. Its parents, Yunyun and Yuanbao, are taking excellent care of it. On sunny days, the family takes walks together, with Hangbao nestled securely in Yuanbao's arms while Yunyun keeps watch.

Hangbao is nestled in the arms of its mother. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]

Caring for a gibbon baby is demanding, so the keepers provide extra nourishment to Yuanbao during meal preparation. Hangbao is becoming more active as it grows, often peeking out curiously from Yuanbao's embrace. Even during mealtime, the cub occasionally sneaks a taste of its mother's leafy greens.

In gibbon families, the gender of newborns is traditionally unknown. Hangbao is no exception. As Hangbao matures, its pale-yellow fur will gradually turn black. If it's a boy, he will retain its black coat into adulthood. However, if it's a girl, her black fur will transition back to yellow as she enters adulthood.

Due to Yuanbao's vigilant care, even the keepers who regularly tend to them are unaware of Hangbao's gender. The revelation will only come after Hangbao completes its fur transition.

The family trio. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]

Hangbao is nestled in the arms of its mother. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]