Zoo Calls In Regular Doctors To Perform Emergency Surgery On Pregnant Gorilla

June 8, 2017

After 24 hours of labor, Kira the gorilla had not progressed and was beginning to tire and show signs she was feeling worse.

The Philadelphia Zoo had to act fast if they were going to save Kira and her baby. So they brought in a team of veterinarians and regular doctors to perform an emergency delivery using procedures and equipment similar to those used in human deliveries -- and it worked.

The 17-year-old Western lowland gorilla successfully delivered a healthy five pound baby boy.

good news doctors save gorilla and baby zoo

Zoo keepers cared for the newborn for about 24 hours until Kira, who was placed under anesthesia for the delivery, recovered. She has been cradling and nursing him ever since, the zoo reported.

"Though Kira is a first-time mom, we're not surprised she's acting like an expert already. She was a great older sister to younger siblings and has been very attentive while our other female gorilla Honi has raised baby Amani," Dr. Andy Baker, Philadelphia Zoo’s Chief Operating Officer, said. "Everybody is excited about these two future playmates."


feel good videoDogs Are Forced To Wear The Things They Steal — And It’s Hilarious

feel good storiesThis School Hasn’t Changed Its Uniform In Nearly 500 Years

feel good storiesAt 3 Feet Tall, He Was Rejected And Bullied. Now He’s Living His Dream As A Doctor

feel good storiesMeet Odin: The Baby Reindeer Born During A Thunderstorm

feel good stories'She Wouldn’t Budge': After A Scare, This Loyal Farm Dog Stood Guard In The Snow All Night

feel good videoThis Dog Dressed As His Owner Is Breaking The Internet

feel good videoPure Joy: Dog Waits Excitedly For Buckets Of Water To Pour On Him

feel good videoWoman Wakes Up To A 'Tiny Miracle' Right Outside Her Window

feel good videoWild Robin Who Wouldn’t Leave Man Alone Ends Up Changing His Life Forever

feel good videoFirefighters Join Kids For Epic Water Fight During 'Wet Monday' Tradition In Poland