Suche
Mein Konto
Mourning at Leipzig Zoo: Gorillas Kio and Kibara die of sepsis!
Two gorillas died of sepsis at Leipzig Zoo, affecting the well-being of the remaining animals. Therapeutic measures are taken.
Mourning at Leipzig Zoo: Gorillas Kio and Kibara die of sepsis!
At Leipzig Zoo, the tragic loss of two gorillas, Kio and Kibara, is causing great sadness among the keepers and visitors. The two animals, both of whom died of severe sepsis, left a sad void in the hearts of the gorilla group and the people who cared for them every day. Caretaker Daniel Geissler is particularly affected, as he had to admit that he cries every day for the deceased animals. The feeling of sadness is not just limited to humans; The remaining gorillas also show changed behavior, which impressively underlines the close bond between humans and animals in this sensitive phase. According to Thüringen24, silverback Abeeku shows his sadness by frequently calling and crying.
The cause of death of the two gorillas was determined through extensive investigations. As the Leipziger Volkszeitung reported, highly pathogenic E.coli bacteria caused massive intestinal damage, which ultimately led to fatal sepsis. These serious health problems occurred within just a week of each other for Kio, a young gorilla, and Kibara, who was 21 years old and was born at the zoo. Despite intensive therapy, the two animals could not be saved, which also caused great dismay for zoo director Prof. Jörg Junhold. He emphasized that this was a unique event in the 25 years of Pongoland.
Intensive care and preventive measures
Urgent measures have been taken to protect the remaining gorillas following the loss. The entire group is now under strict medical and animal care control. Special food supplements have been provided to stabilize the animals' intestinal flora, and feeding is now carried out in smaller quantities throughout the day, reports Leipzig Zoo. Hydration is also monitored, with various drinks offered to ensure healthy fluid intake. These measures are showing initial success, as the remaining gorillas are now eating regularly again.
Particular attention is paid to female gorilla Kumili, who showed temporarily restricted food intake after the deaths. However, it remains unclear whether she was also infected. Their psychological stress due to the dramatic changes in the group may also have had an impact on their well-being. Despite the difficult circumstances, the group as a whole is showing recovery and the younger females appear to be unaffected by the illnesses.
Dr. Andreas Bernhard, zoo veterinarian, and his team remain vigilant to ensure the remaining gorillas remain healthy. The emotional support of caregivers is especially important during these difficult times, both for the animals and for the people who care for them every day. The zoo remains committed to doing everything it can to best protect the other gorillas and help them through this period of grief. The loss of Kio and Kibara is a devastating experience for everyone who is part of this vibrant community.