Kitombe, a male western lowland gorilla, is experiencing concerning health issues, which his care team has been closely monitoring as well as his quality of life. Today, his condition deteriorated rapidly, and his veterinary and animal care team have determined it is necessary to place Kitombe put under anesthesia tomorrow at Franklin Park Zoo so the zoo’s veterinary staff can examine him.

In recent months, Kitombe, affectionately known as Kit, has been experiencing health issues that include a chronic cough, loss of weight and muscle mass, increased lethargy and trembling. Kit, who is a geriatric gorilla at age 38, has also long been treated for glaucoma as well as heart disease – both of which are managed by medication. Cardiac disease is the biggest health issue affecting male gorillas in human care, which is why routine monitoring, proactive care and cardiac exams are so important.

“While Kit had initially responded positively to antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medication, the worsening of his condition requires a comprehensive exam to better identify the cause of his current ailments and what, if any, options are for treatment,” said Dr. Christopher Bonar, Zoo New England Director of Animal Health. “While the risks associated with anesthesia are extremely high for Kit, given his age and current health condition, the examination is critical.”

Kit, who has resided at Franklin Park Zoo since 1998, is one of six gorillas at the Zoo. He and his mate Kiki, have produced five offspring, including Kambiri, Aziza and Pablo who also live with their parents. Their oldest two reside at other zoos accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums per recommendations by the SSP.

Zoo New England (ZNE) has been a longtime supporter of gorilla conservation, devoting passion, expertise and resources to the preservation of this iconic species. ZNE is an active participant in the Gorilla Species Survival Plan (SSP), which is a cooperative, inter-zoo program coordinated nationally through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). SSPs help to ensure the survival of selected species in zoos and aquariums, most of which are threatened or endangered, and enhance conservation of these species in the wild.

Western lowland gorillas are considered critically endangered in the wild. Western gorillas, found in the countries of Nigeria, Cameroon, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, Republic of Congo, Angola, and Central African Republic, are divided into the Cross River and western lowland subspecies. Both are considered critically endangered. Threats to gorillas vary geographically and western gorillas are primarily threatened by disease and the bushmeat trade.