Lowland Gorilla, Miami Zoo

145999796

Lowland Gorilla, Miami Zoo

Photo by: irvingnsaperstein

irvingnsaperstein

Zoo Miami Tests Gorilla for COVID

By: Leah Weber

Zoo Miami is taking every precaution to protect its gorilla population from COVID-19.

July 13, 2020

Shango, a 31-year-old, 433-pound male gorilla got in a fight with his 26-year-old brother, Barney, which resulted in some bite marks that needed medical attention.

Before the medical procedure to address his wounds, Shango had a full work-up that included vaccines, x-rays, a TB test, and the very timely COVID-19 test. Animals all over the world have tested positive for COVID-19, so Zoo Miami did the right thing in making sure that Shango is healthy. Luckily, he tested negative!

As we continue to fight this virus in the human world, the animal kingdom needs to stay safe as well. We thank all veterinary and zoo professionals for staying diligent and protecting animals like Shango! We hope that he and Barney work out their issues.

Next Up

Year in Review: Nature in Focus Adventures

For many years I've looked back on the year in review and thought about all of the incredible adventures I've experienced and this year is no exception.

Monkeys Steal COVID-19 Tests

During the pandemic, these primates in India have taken “Monkey Business” to a whole new level.

Bronx Zoo Tigers and Lions have Tested Positive for COVID-19

Nadia, as seen on Animal Planet’s THE ZOO, has tested positive for the novel coronavirus along with six other large cats—all are expected to recover, according to zoo officials.

First Dog in the US Tests Positive for Coronavirus

A pug in North Carolina has tested positive for COVID-19, after the virus worked its way through almost his whole family.

Murder Hornets Invade the US

For my next trick, says 2020, may I introduce you to… Murder Hornets! Spotted in the Pacific Northwest for the first time, these giant hornets put our ecosystem at risk.

The Battle to Save California Mountain Lions

California is considering protecting mountain lions in certain parts of the state through the Endangered Species Act – but not everyone is happy about it.

Clear Skies During Lockdown is a Pandemic Upside

With almost all of the world under lockdown, cars are off the roads and the smog is disappearing in some of the planet’s most polluted atmospheres.

Fossils Found Under Greenland’s Ice Sheet

Leaf and twig fossils are discovered to be “perfectly preserved” under Greenland’s ice sheet, fascinating scientists and leading to further discovery.

An Underwater Adventure From the Comfort of Your Couch

The Georgia Aquarium is live streaming from some of their epic habitats!

The Truth About COVID-19 and Your Animals

Experts in the medical and veterinary fields help clear up rumors and answer your burning questions about how COVID-19 affects animals.