MEMPHIS, Tenn. – The Memphis Zoo announced on Monday the death of one of its beloved gorillas.
Kwizera, who had lived up to 37 years old, died “unexpectedly” earlier this month after what the zoo called “a brief illness.” In a Facebook post, zoo officials said the gorilla was found unresponsive July 6 and zookeepers were unable to revive her.
The zoo said female gorillas under the care of humans can typically live into their 50s.
“Despite swift action and lifesaving efforts from our dedicated keepers and veterinary team, she could not be revived,” the zoo said in a statement. “Her human caregivers surrounded her as she passed, and her gorilla family was given time to say goodbye.”
The zoo said that Kwizera arrived in Memphis in 2009 from Buffalo, N.Y., adding that she played “a pivotal role in forming our first cohesive gorilla group in more than 15 years.”
Zoo officials said Kwizera was known for “her clever and spirited personality.”
The zoo said anyone who wants to pay tribute to Kwizera can do so by either making a donation in her name on gorillafund.org or by leaving flowers or a note at her memorial near the zoo’s entrance.