The deaths of two gorillas at the Milwaukee County Zoo in a span of three weeks in April were the result of gastrointestinal infections, likely E. coli from the exhibit's water system, a statement from zoo officials said.
The water systems in both the gorilla and bonobo areas has since been disconnected, the statement said. The water supplied to the public was reportedly not affected.
Naku, a 17-year-old western lowland gorilla, was euthanized April 29 after veterinarian officials found that a portion of her intestine had died and was no longer functioning. An adult male gorilla, Cassius, died April 12.
"It’s an extremely sad day at the Zoo as we mourn the loss of Naku," zoo director Chuck Wikenhauser said in a statement announcing her passing. "Our extremely dedicated and experienced veterinary, medical and primate keeper staff worked tirelessly together with the hope of bringing Naku through this difficult series of events."
Zookeepers reported that Naku appeared responsive but more tired than normal on Friday. Once anesthetized for an exam, she was found to be septic, the zoo statement said. An emergency surgery revealed that Naku had a necrotic bowel.
For more go to WKOW: http://www.wkow.com/story/38373755/2018/06/07/gorillas-at-milwaukee-county-zoo-likely-died-from-e-coli-in-water