Matadi, the leader of the gorilla group at Antwerp Zoo, has died after succumbing to a serious viral and bacterial respiratory tract infection, the zoo announced in a statement on Tuesday.
The silverback was only 20 years old, but gorillas can live up to 30 years in the wild on average and up to 50 years in captivity.
"Matadi was taken from us unexpectedly yesterday, following a double respiratory infection (Covid-19 and whooping cough) that led to complications," said the zoo.
The gorilla had been feeling unwell for some time. Like the females in the group, he had a particularly bad cold. The vet and caretakers were closely monitoring his condition. The females recovered quickly, but Matadi's symptoms persisted. He felt weak and stopped eating, and his health deteriorated at an alarming rate.
Despite several attempts at resuscitation with medical imaging specialists from Ghent University, they were unable to regulate his heartbeat. Matadi died in the presence of his carers.
"All the gorillas had the opportunity to bid farewell to this endearing animal who, despite his imposing appearance, was a particularly caring and gentle father to his daughters Thandie and Vizazi," added Antwerp Zoo.
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Matadi's body will be transferred to Ghent University on Tuesday for an autopsy and further scientific research into his shoulder and arm muscles. "Our beloved silverback will continue to make a significant contribution to science and veterinary medicine in particular, now and in the future," concluded the institution.
One of the females should now take over from Matadi as leader of the group.
