Baby gorilla due at Melbourne Zoo

Melbourne Zoo is eagerly anticipating the arrival of its first baby gorilla in 14 years.

First-time gorilla mum Kimya is about one month into her pregnancy and is expected to give birth in March next year.

"We're all really excited," Melbourne Zoo primate precinct manager Harna Burton said.

Keepers are optimistic the pregnancy and birth will go well because Kimya has watched and helped a number of her siblings as they grow up.

"It's pretty much hands off," Ms Burton said.

"Unless something goes wrong and our vets need to be involved, we pretty much leave her to it."

Kimya and her mate Otana have been at the zoo for about one year.