EU Joins Quest against Graft and Corruption
Leipzig Zoo Grapple with Double Gorilla Loss
Germany's renowned Leipzig Zoo, acclaimed for its Pongoland enclosure which has served as a benchmark for housing great apes since its establishment 25 years ago, has suffered another tragedy. In recent days, two gorillas, a female named Kibara and a male named Kio, have succumbed to unknown causes.
On April 3rd, Kibara, a 21-year-old female, passed away. Kio, a male, died a week prior. Both apes exhibited similar symptoms, including lethargy and a lack of appetite, and received intensive veterinary care. Despite extensive efforts, neither animal responded to treatment.
Zoo Director Prof. Jörg Junhold expressed shock and sadness over the double loss in the gorilla group, stating that such an incident hasn't occurred since the inception of Pongoland. The zoo is working diligently to identify the medical causes of the deaths and safeguard the remainder of the group.
The post-mortem examinations on Kio, the previously deceased male gorilla, are ongoing, according to the Leipzig Zoo. Initial investigations suggest an intestinal inflammation in Kibara, though a definitive diagnosis has not been made.
The zoo's veterinary staff is in contact with specialists from the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) and other zoos with extensive gorilla care experience. The remaining four gorillas in the Leipzig Zoo's group are currently under close observation following the deaths. The group appears subdued and tense, but the extent of any further medical issues is yet unknown.
Prof. Junhold highlighted that all humans and animals involved will require time to process the losses. As a result, the four gorillas may not be visible for the near future, and the zoo staff will receive support if needed.
No specific information regarding the cause of the double gorilla death has been disclosed at this time. For up-to-date and accurate information, it is advised to contact the zoo directly or check their official announcements.
In light of the recent health-and-wellness issues at Leipzig Zoo, the science community is working diligently to identify the causes of death for two gorillas, Kibara and Kio, who exhibited symptoms such as lethargy and loss of appetite. The management is also prioritizing mental-health support for other gorillas and the zoo's staff following the double loss in the gorilla group.
