A western lowland gorilla ‘Nyati’ born at Como Zoo in October 2017 has died, according to zoo officials.
Nyati was euthanized on Tuesday following what zoo officials say was “a significant decline in her quality of life due to long-term neurological complications.”
The gorilla’s medical issues started in 2020 with a diagnosis of Baylisascaris procyonis — a parasitic infection likely contracted at a young age. It was successfully treated but the parasite caused permanent brain lesions leading to gradual degeneration that affected her coordination, mobility, and motor skills.
For the last five years, veterinary and animal care staff at the zoo provided the gorilla with support such as medications, physical therapy, environmental modifications, and consultations with specialists.
“Nyati was deeply loved, not just by her care team, but by everyone who came to know her,” said Wes Sims, director of Animal Care and Health at Como Zoo, in a statement. “Her life was shaped by medical challenges, but also by resilience, thoughtful care, and compassion. The decision to let her go was extremely difficult, but it was the most humane option for her.”
Nyati was a member of Como Zoo’s family troop of western lowland gorillas. She was the daughter of Schroeder and Alice, and lived alongside her parents and fellow troop members.
Western lowland gorillas originate in central and western Africa and are critically endangered. In the wild, they face threats such as habitat loss, poaching, and disease outbreaks.
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