Melbourne Zoo mourns loss of cherished gorilla Kimya at 20

Vets at Melbourne Zoo are investigating the unexpected death of a “much-loved” 20-year-old gorilla named Kimya.

The western lowland gorilla died suddenly on Saturday morning.

“As part of this investigation, a full necropsy will be undertaken to determine the cause of death,” Zoos Victoria said in a statement.

Kimya was born at Taronga Zoo before arriving in Melbourne in 2013, where she “quickly bonded” with 24-year-old male, Otana.

In 2015, they became a successful breeding pair after the birth of Kanzi, the first gorilla born at Melbourne Zoo in 15 years.

“Melbourne Zoo members, visitors, volunteers, and staff – especially Kimya’s dedicated keeper team – will deeply feel this loss,” Zoos Victoria said in a statement.

Kimya was intelligent, observant and independent. She was a loving mother, who gently showed Kanzi all the skills she needed as a gorilla.

Zoos Victoria statement

Melbourne Zoo director Sheri Horiszny said staff were heartbroken over Kimya’s death.

“She was a wonderful gorilla,” she said. “Our zoo family of staff, members and visitors have watched her over the years and joined in her delight of becoming a mother and raising Kanzi. She will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.”