At Istanbul’s Polonezkoy Zoo, a five-month-old baby gorilla who was saved from smuggling is recuperating. The gorilla, Zeytin, was found in a crate during a Turkish Airlines flight and is receiving professional care to restore his health and self-esteem.
After being saved from a smuggling operation last month, Zeytin, a newborn gorilla, is discovering new life. During a stopover in Istanbul on December 21, Turkish officials found the five-month-old in the luggage hold of a Turkish Airlines flight from Nigeria to Thailand.
Before being stopped by customs officers at Istanbul Airport, Zeytin was headed for Bangkok and was concealed in a crate. The juvenile gorilla, who is currently under the care of the Polonezkoy Zoo, is recovering remarkably well.
Veterinarian Gulfem Esmen revealed, “Zeytin was shy and apprehensive when he first came, staying where we left him.” He is becoming more self-assured now. He doesn’t seem to mind our presence and plays games by himself.
Zeytin’s long-term safety and wellbeing must be guaranteed, stressed Fahrettin Ulu, regional director of Istanbul Nature Conservation and National Parks. “We’re hoping Zeytin can eventually return to his natural habitat, but it needs to be completely safe.”
The case brings to light the persistent problems with wildlife trafficking, a worldwide problem that puts many species in jeopardy. Zeytin’s narrative serves as a reminder of the need to prevent the exploitation of vulnerable wildlife while he recovers in Istanbul.
For the time being, Zeytin’s path is being monitored by professionals, giving the energetic young gorilla hope for a better future.