Cincinnati Zoo Gladys is an eleven-year-old western lowland gorilla who has been making headlines due to her recent injury and innovative recovery process. As a zoo touring enthusiast, you’ll be captivated by her inspiring story.
Background of Cincinnati Zoo Gladys
Gladys was born on January 29, 2013, at the Gladys Porter Zoo in Brownsville, Texas. Her mother, a first-time mom, was unsure how to care for the infant, so keepers stepped in to help. Gladys was later moved to the Cincinnati Zoo, where keepers lived with her 24/7, teaching her to act and think like a gorilla. She was eventually placed with surrogate gorilla mom M’Linzi when she was ready and stayed with her for many years.
Injury and Surgery
In April 2024, Gladys sustained a broken humerus during a scuffle with the younger two females in her troop. The injury required surgery, which was performed by a team of veterinarians from the Cincinnati Zoo and surgeons from Cincinnati Children’s. The surgery involved repairing the fracture and applying a temporary cast to provide stability until a stronger, gorilla-proof cast could be made.
Custom 3D-Printed Titanium Cast
The temporary cast was replaced with a custom 3D-printed titanium cast created by GE Additive. This cast is more durable than a traditional cast and is designed to prevent Gladys from re-injuring her arm during the healing process. The titanium cast took around 65 hours to print and weighed about 8 pounds, which is heavier than the temporary cast but should not be a problem for Gladys due to her strong arms.
Recovery and Physical Therapy
Gladys wore the titanium cast for about four weeks and remained behind the scenes while she healed. She was monitored closely by her care team and provided around-the-clock attention. After the cast was removed, she began physical therapy training sessions to rebuild her arm muscles. The zoo team is working with Gladys to help her navigate spaces that allow for more climbing, tapping into her natural instincts.
Current Status
Gladys is recovering well and has shown significant improvement in her range of motion. Her X-rays looked good, and she is voluntarily participating in stretches and workouts. Her return to her habitat has not been determined yet, but keepers will assess her progress daily and adjust plans accordingly.
Zoo Hours and Membership
Visitors can see the other gorillas during regular zoo hours, which are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Members get Early Entry and are welcome to enter the Zoo at 9 a.m. Memberships are on sale now, offering discounted prices and various perks.
Interesting Facts
- Gorillas are incredibly resilient and strong animals, and Gladys has proven this by adapting to her cast and recovery process.
- The Cincinnati Zoo worked with Cincinnati Children’s, UC Health, and GE Additive to provide the best possible care for Gladys.
- The zoo offers discounted tickets on select days when purchased online, saving families up to $40.
As a zoo touring enthusiast, you’ll be amazed by Gladys’ remarkable recovery and the innovative approach taken by the Cincinnati Zoo team. Keep an eye on the zoo’s updates to follow Gladys’ progress and plan your visit to see her and the rest of the gorilla troop.
References:
– Cincinnati Zoo. (2024). Gorilla Gladys is Getting Around with Her Cast – Cincinnati Zoo. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLa236UK_1U
– Cincinnati Zoo. (2024). Cincinnati Zoo Vets Work with Cincinnati Children’s, UC Health, and GE Additive to Help Injured Gorilla. https://cincinnatizoo.org/cincinnati-zoo-vets-work-with-cincinnati-childrens-uc-health-and-ge-additive-to-help-injured-gorilla/
– Cincinnati Zoo. (2024). Cincinnati Zoo Gorilla Gladys Gets Gorilla-Grade Cast Thanks to GE Additive. https://cincinnatizoo.org/cincinnati-zoo-gorilla-gladys-gets-gorilla-grade-cast-thanks-to-ge-additive/
– Cincinnati Zoo. (2024). Gorilla Gladys Outside After Broken Arm Recovery – Cincinnati Zoo. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OWZ53vpLydY
– Cincinnati Zoo. (2024). Gladys the Gorilla is Eight Pounds Lighter after Titanium Cast is Removed by Cincinnati Zoo Vets. https://cincinnatizoo.org/gladys-the-gorilla-is-eight-pounds-lighter-after-titanium-cast-is-removed-by-cincinnati-zoo-vets/