SALT LAKE CITY — Caretakers at Utah's Hogle Zoo are mourning the passing of a western lowland infant gorilla that was euthanized after sustaining injuries.
The infant gorilla was born on Wednesday to its mother, Mary, but following birth, there was a "troop conflict" that resulted in injuries to the infant, zoo officials said in a statement.
"While conflict can occur, this was a highly unusual outcome," said the statement.
"Gorilla troops are dynamic, and moments surrounding a birth can bring rapid shifts within the group, much like the arrival of a new baby can shift dynamics in a human family. Zoo teams are thoroughly trained in gorillas' complex social structure and are committed to animal well-being by understanding their interactions and emotional behaviors."
After assessing the infant's injuries, staff members made the "difficult but compassionate" decision to humanely euthanize the gorilla.
Additionally, the statement said Mary is receiving attentive postpartum care. She rejoined the troop later Wednesday and staff are continuing to closely monitor the group.
"As with any pregnancy or birth, there is always the possibility of complications. Hogle Zoo prepares for a range of outcomes through birth management plans, which are reviewed in collaboration with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Gorilla Species Survival Plan," the statement said, adding that the association, along with colleagues and experts with the gorilla advisory community, was consulted before and after the birth.
The zoo said professional support services are being provided for the zoo team and added that it is "grateful for the community's compassion during this difficult time."
