There are times when a disparity is not really a disparity, particularly in terms of the affection shared between a mother and her child. Emmelina Austin and Kiki, the gorilla mom, are perfect examples of this phenomenon.

The Austins recently took a trip to the Franklin Park Zoo in Boston with their newborn, Canyon. While checking out the gorilla exhibit, they had the pleasure of seeing Kiki and her 7-month-old baby gorilla, Pablo.

According to Michael Austin, father of Canyon, his wife expressed that she related to the bond between Kiki and her baby, Pablo, since she is also a mother now. During their visit to the enclosure, Michael’s wife held up their son for Kiki to see, which prompted Kiki to pick up Pablo and bring him closer to them. For the next few minutes, Emmelina and Kiki sat with their babies close together, in a timeless language of motherhood, despite the barrier separating them.

Michael described how Kiki communicated with them using hand gestures while Pablo observed closely through the glass. At one point, Pablo even pressed his nose against the glass, and they both watched each other intently. The family was so moved by the experience that they had tears in their eyes. Michael shared that it was an unforgettable moment that they will cherish and one day share with their son.