Vets at Melbourne Zoo are investigating the unexpected death of a “much-loved” 20-year-old gorilla named Kimya.
The western lowland gorilla died suddenly on Saturday morning.
Kimya the western lowland gorilla and her daughter Kanzi, enjoying treats for Kimya’s 12th birthday at Melbourne Zoo in 2017.Credit: Paul Jeffers
“As part of this investigation, a full necropsy will be undertaken to determine the cause of death,” Zoos Victoria said in a statement.
Kimya was born at Taronga Zoo before arriving in Melbourne in 2013, where she “quickly bonded” with 24-year-old male, Otana.
In 2015, they became a successful breeding pair after the birth of Kanzi, the first gorilla born at Melbourne Zoo in 15 years.
“Melbourne Zoo members, visitors, volunteers, and staff – especially Kimya’s dedicated keeper team – will deeply feel this loss,” Zoos Victoria said in a statement.
Kimya was intelligent, observant and independent. She was a loving mother, who gently showed Kanzi all the skills she needed as a gorilla.
Zoos Victoria statement
Melbourne Zoo director Sheri Horiszny said staff were heartbroken over Kimya’s death.
“She was a wonderful gorilla,” she said. “Our zoo family of staff, members and visitors have watched her over the years and joined in her delight of becoming a mother and raising Kanzi. She will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.”
Melbourne Zoo said staff needed space to grieve. “Kimya was intelligent, observant and independent. She was a loving mother, who gently showed Kanzi all the skills she needed as a gorilla,” the statement said.
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