Gorilla Doctors

On June 24, Dr, Ricky checked on the mountain gorillas of Katwe group in Bwindi impenetrable National park, Uganda. Apart from adult female Kangume, who is still recovering from gastrointestinal parasites for which she was treated, the group was in good visual health.

Last week, Dr. Adrien trekked into Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda to check on Igisha group. He noted that juveniles Ineza and Umusingi had some browning of their haircoats, which is typically an indicator of gastrointestinal parasites, as well as a minor healing wound on juvenile Irebe’s right hand. Apart from these observations, the overall visual health of the group was good. The juveniles' body conditions will be closely monitored.

Pictured: Dominant silverback Igisha with members of his group; juvenile Umusingi

We are proud of Dr. Adrien, one of our field veterinarians in Rwanda, for his recent presentation on the detection and treatment of the Shigella bacteria in mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda at the 2026 Zoo & Wildlife Health Conference organized by the European Association of Zoo and Wildlife Veterinarians. His virtual talk was well received and he was asked a lot questions by the attendees. Congratulations, Dr. Adrien!