After Gila monsters were noted mating in May 1963 and the female was carrying eggs several weeks later, she was separated from the others in the hope that she would successfully lay them. On July 25, five eggs were discovered and taken to the Reptile House for incubation. Two did not hatch, but on November 25, the first hatchling emerged, followed by the others on November 27 and December 1. It was quite a feat for the herpetology staff, and the Zoological Society was awarded the American Association of Zoological Parks and Aquariums' Edward H. Bean Award for significant reproduction for the success.