The health of Kitombe, a senior gorilla at Boston's Franklin Park Zoo, has taken a worrying turn, necessitating an exploratory medical procedure scheduled for today. The 38-year-old western lowland gorilla has been struggling with several health issues, including a persistent cough, weight and muscle loss, and an alarming increase in lethargy and trembling, as reported by NBC Boston.
Kitombe, affectionately known as "Kit" by zoo staff and visitors alike. According to WCVB, the decision to proceed with the examination under anesthesia comes in light of his rapidly worsening condition yesterday. Despite previous treatment for glaucoma and heart disease, which continue to be managed by medication, his health issues have escalated, prompting immediate action from his care team at the zoo.
"While the risks associated with anesthesia are extremely high for Kit, given his age and current health condition, the examination is critical," Dr. Christopher Bonar, Zoo New England Director of Animal Health, told NBC Boston. Kit has called Franklin Park Zoo home since 1998 and is one among six gorillas residing there. He and his mate Kiki have sired five offspring, with three still living together with their parents at the zoo.
Western lowland gorillas like Kit are critically endangered in the wild with the threats ranging from disease to the bushmeat trade, as informed by Franklin Park Zoo. They inhabit several Central African countries and their survival is currently under dire threat. Kitombe's health plight at the zoo mirrors the broader challenges his species faces in the wild.
