(Chester Zoo via SWNS)

By Ed Chatterton

Keepers are celebrating the birth of a critically endangered orangutan at a UK zoo - hailing it a 'milestone step' towards saving the species from extinction.

The tiny Bornean orangutan was delivered by mom Leia at Chester Zoo in the early hours of October 7 following an eight-and-a-half-month pregnancy.

Heartwarming photos show the newborn clinging to its mother while exploring its new surroundings at the Cheshire attraction.

The adorable youngster joins an international conservation breeding program which is working to protect the species from extinction.

Chris Yarwood, assistant team manager of primates at Chester Zoo, said: “Leia is a wonderful mum.

"She’s extremely attentive and has spent the first few days holding her baby close, feedi

See Full Page