San Francisco Zoo's Gorillas Grieve, Comfort Each Other After Young Ape's Tragic Death
SAN FRANCISCO (CBS SF) — The San Francisco Zoo says its six western lowland gorillas are showing normal signs of grief and loss following the death of the group's youngest gorilla.
The Zoo says Monday the primary focus for both staff and the primates following Friday's death of Kabibe has been the ape's grandmother and primary caregiver.
MORE: Young Ape's Tragic Death
The 15-month-old gorilla was killed when she unexpectedly darted under a closing door while she and other animals were being moved into their nighttime enclosures.
Zoo officials say her grandmother initially showed signs of distress, including a specific calling-out behavior and loss of appetite but that she has begun to forage for treats.
They say her grandson, daughter, and lifelong companion are staying close by her side and can be seen gently comforting her.
Officials at the San Francisco Zoo said they retested the hydraulic door that killed Kabibe and found that its manual instant-stop switch was functioning properly.
It apparently wasn't pressed in time to save the gorilla when she moved quickly back toward the door.
What's not clear, according to a report in the San Francisco Chronicle, is whether this particular door has automatic pressure stops or an electronic sensor similar to those used to stop automatic garage doors from coming down when there is an obstruction.
Zoo officials said this type of accident is rare and that animal safety is their top priority.
The zoo has brought in Dr. Terry Maple, a gorilla expert and former chairman of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, to conduct an investigation into Friday's accident.
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