Zoo Leipzig: Following the demise of two gorillas, a keeper candidly shares emotional distress - "Much tears shed"
In late March, a tragic event occurred at Leipzig Zoo when Gorilla Kio and Gorilla Kibara, two beloved members of the gorilla group, died from sepsis caused by coli bacteria [1]. The cause of their deaths was unclear for a while, but appropriate measures with veterinarians were swiftly implemented to prevent infection of other animals [2].
The sudden loss of Kio and Kibara has had a profound impact on the gorilla group, as well as the caretakers at the zoo. Caretaker Daniel Geissler and his team have been paying extra attention to the gorilla enclosure, closely monitoring their eating habits and health signs to support their recovery [3].
Gorilla Kumili showed a significant decrease in appetite following the deaths, while Silverback Abeeku, who was particularly close to Kibara, mourned heavily [4]. The rest of the gorilla group also displayed noticeable changes in behavior, with peace not yet fully returning to the enclosure [5].
After a period of not eating, all four remaining gorillas are now eating regularly, which is a positive sign for their recovery [6]. However, the group still needs time to rearrange themselves and rebuild relationships that were disrupted by the loss [7].
The caretakers at Leipzig Zoo, along with veterinarian Dr. Andreas Bernhard, will continue to monitor and support the gorillas as they grieve. An episode of MDR's docu-soap "Elefant, Tiger & Co" (first aired: 30th May) features a caretaker speaking about the difficult time following the gorillas' deaths [8].
Caretaker Daniel Geissler emphasized that such a loss is a deeply traumatic experience for a gorilla group, affecting both animals and human caretakers deeply [9]. Recovery is a gradual process involving careful observation and emotional support within the group [1].
Despite the ongoing emotional and behavioral effects, the rest of the gorilla group at Leipzig Zoo seems healthy now. The staff will continue their vigilant care, hoping for a full recovery and a return to calm for the gorillas in their care.
The caretakers at Leipzig Zoo have been maintaining a meticulous lifestyle in the home-and-garden of the gorilla enclosure, closely monitoring the eating habits and health signs of the gorillas as part of their mourning recovery process. As they grieve and rebuild their lifestyle, the staff hopes their love and support will help the gorilla group, including pet Silverback Abeeku, return to peace and normalcy within the home and garden.
