Kitombe the gorilla passed away this week at Franklin Park Zoo. What to know
The Franklin Park Zoo in Boston is mourning one of its beloved primates this week, as Kitombe, a male western lowland gorilla, passed away on Dec. 5.
The zoo reported that there was "a rapid decline" in Kitombe's health on Wednesday, noting an exam was performed on the gorilla to determine what could be the source of the primate's recent health issues.
“We are devastated to share the news of Kit’s passing," Zoo New England President and CEO John Linehan stated in a release this week. "He has been part of our zoo family for more than 25 years, and will be deeply missed by the staff who has cared for him for so many years. He was an incredible father to his five offspring with his mate Kiki, and it was a joy to watch his gentle interactions with them. ... We hope that people will keep Kit’s care team in their thoughts during this sad time.”
How old was Kitombe at the time of his passing?
He was 38 years old at the time of his death. That is considered to be "geriatric" for a gorilla, according to a release from the zoo.
Did Kitombe have health issues previous to his death?
Zoo officials explained in a statement that Kitombe had been suffering from a chronic cough, a loss of weight and muscle mass, and increased lethargy and trembling.
What was ultimately the cause of death?
A statement from the zoo said that the exam on Kitombe on Thursday included chest radiographs, routine blood tests, a urinalysis, an echocardiogram, and electromyograms.
After the exam was finished, "The decision was made to humanely euthanize him due to his poor prognosis and serious quality-of-life concerns," zoo officials said in a written statement.
When did Franklin Park Zoo get Kitombe?
Kitombe had been at the zoo since 1998, and had been living there with five other gorillas.
"He and his mate Kiki, produced five offspring, including Kambiri, Aziza and Pablo who also reside at Franklin Park Zoo," a release said. "Their oldest two reside at other zoos accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums."
Where was Kitombe born?
According to the GorillasLand website, Kitombe was born in captivity at the Audubon Zoo in Lousiana on Sept. 20, 1986. He lived at that zoo until being transferred to the Franklin Park Zoo in 1998.
About western lowland gorillas
Western lowland gorillas are considered critically endangered in the wild, according to the Franklin Park Zoo.
"Populations can be found in Cameroon, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Equatorial Guinea as well as in large areas in Gabon and the Republic of Congo," according to the World Wildlife Fund.
These gorillas are slightly smaller than other types, with traits like brownish-grey coats and auburn chests. They also have wider skulls than other gorillas, according to the World Wildlife Fund.
This article originally appeared on wickedlocal.com: Kitombe the gorilla died at Franklin Park Zoo week. How old was he?
