“People who question that don’t understand you can’t take a risk with a silverback gorilla – this is a unsafe animal”, Cincinnati Zoo Director Thane Maynard said in a news conference. “I need someone to contact the zoo, please”, the mother told an operator.
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The boy’s family released a statement saying he continues to do well and expressing gratitude to the Cincinnati Zoo for protecting his life Saturday. Harambe began swinging the boy back and forth in the exhibit’s moat, and she screamed out, “He’s dragging my son”.
Police said their investigation will look at the parents’ actions – not the operation of the zoo, which is overseen by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
“Gorillas are gentle, nurturing animals who attack only when provoked, and experts report that Harambe was likely trying to protect this child”, Brittany Peet of PETA, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, said in a statement. At another point, she says “I can’t watch this”. The gorilla was shot dead by zoo officials.
THE desperate cries of the mum of Isaiah Dickerson – who caused panic when he entered a gorilla enclosure – can be heard in a 911 emergency call released today.
But officials at the main U.S. body that oversees breeding of zoo animals said it was highly unlikely the western lowland gorilla’s contribution to the nation’s “frozen zoo” of genetic material of rare and endangered species would be used to breed.
Maynard has defended the zoo’s actions, saying using tranquilizers on the gorilla would not have knocked the animal out right away, leaving the boy in danger.
On Aug. 16, 1996, a 3-year-old boy fell into the gorilla’s den at the Brookfield Zoo.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks for the quick action by the Cincinnati Zoo staff”.
Police will then discuss with prosecutors whether charges should be filed.
“We are also very appreciative for the expressions of concern and support …”
In a written statement they asked well-wishers not to send them financial gifts, but to make any donations to the zoo.
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“Caller: “(The gorilla) picked him up out of the water, climbed the rock wall and took him up on top”.
