The Cincinnati Zoo Gorilla Incident refers to the tragic event on May 28, 2016, when a 3-year-old boy fell into the Gorilla World exhibit at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, leading to the death of Harambe, a 17-year-old western lowland gorilla.
The Incident Details
On that fateful day, the 3-year-old boy climbed over a 3-foot barrier, crawled through bushes, and fell 15 feet into the moat surrounding the gorilla enclosure. Harambe, the 450-pound silverback gorilla, grabbed the boy and dragged him around the enclosure. Over the next 10 minutes, Harambe became increasingly agitated and disoriented due to the screams of onlookers.
Fearing for the child’s life, the zoo’s Dangerous Animal Response Team made the difficult decision to shoot and kill Harambe. The team believed that tranquilizing the gorilla would not have been effective in time to save the child.
Aftermath
The boy was hospitalized for a short period but escaped with non-life-threatening injuries. The incident sparked global controversy, with many questioning the zoo’s decision to kill Harambe. Celebrities like Ricky Gervais, Brian May, and Piers Morgan criticized the zoo’s actions, while others, like Donald Trump, defended the decision.
The incident was investigated by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and the USDA. The zoo was also investigated for possible negligence, but no charges were filed against the parents.
Harambe’s Legacy
Harambe’s death led to numerous tributes and memorials, including a candlelight vigil at Hyde Park in London and a vigil at the Cincinnati Zoo. Harambe became a social media and meme icon, with his image appearing on baseball jerseys, cleats, and even an Elon Musk music track.
The Cincinnati Zoo supports wild gorilla conservation efforts, such as the Mbeli Bai Study in Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park in the Republic of Congo. This is a testament to Harambe’s legacy and the importance of protecting endangered species.
Key Statistics
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Harambe’s Age | 17 years old |
| Gorilla Species | Western lowland gorilla |
| Gorillas in Zoos Worldwide | Approximately 765 |
| Gorillas in AZA Species Survival Program | Around 360 |
The western lowland gorilla is a critically endangered species with fewer than 175,000 individuals in the wild. The loss of Harambe, a member of this species, was a significant blow to conservation efforts.
The Cincinnati Zoo Gorilla Incident was a tragic event that sparked global controversy and highlighted the delicate balance between public safety, animal welfare, and conservation efforts. While the decision to kill Harambe was a difficult one, it ultimately aimed to protect the life of the child. The incident has left a lasting impact on the public’s perception of zoos and the importance of responsible animal management.