Zoo is heartbroken over loss of infant gorilla
May 11, 2017
Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is mourning the loss of the Zoo’s first infant gorilla.
“Our staff is absolutely heartbroken,” said John Davis, curator of mammals at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. “Macy was a wonderful mother throughout her pregnancy and did everything exactly as she should. Everything was progressing as expected; however, with any pregnancy there can be unforeseen complications.”
The infant was born in the breech position Thursday morning. This was the first pregnancy for 10-year-old Macy, one of the Zoo’s three female western lowland gorillas.
Gorilla Base Camp has been closed to give Macy the time she needs with her infant.
“We are not going to intervene in the process,” said Davis. “Macy appears to be doing well right now. We will continue to monitor her behavior to determine our next steps and when we re-open Base Camp viewing.”
According to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) there is an 80% survival rate of infants born to first-time gorilla mothers.
Davis adds that this is a tough time for the Riverbanks family and the community but the Zoo is hopeful for another gorilla pregnancy in the future.
Riverbanks Zoo and Garden
For more than 40 years, Riverbanks Zoo and Garden has connected individuals, families and groups with the world’s wildlife and wild places. Riverbanks is a special purpose district governed by the Riverbanks Park Commission, which consists of seven members, two appointed by Richland County Council, two by Lexington County Council, two by the City of Columbia, and one jointly by the three entities. It is the mission of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden to foster appreciation and concern for all living things. Riverbanks Zoo is located at 500 Wildlife Parkway, Columbia, SC 29210. The Botanical Garden entrance is located at 1300 Botanical Parkway, West Columbia, SC 29169. The park is open daily from 9am to 5pm, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas day. Admission is $15.95 for adults, $13.50 for children ages 2 – 12 and free for children younger than 2. Group rates and other discounts may apply. Year-round membership packages are also available. For more information, call Riverbanks at 803.779.8717, visit www.riverbanks.org or www.facebook.com/riverbankszoo.
