Istanbul: A baby gorilla discovered in a Turkish Airlines cargo hold is recovering at Istanbul’s Polonezkoy Zoo.
The five-month-old was found in a box during a flight from Nigeria to Thailand last month.
Officials named him Zeytin, or Olive, after holding a public contest to decide on a suitable name.
Wildlife authorities are considering returning the gorilla to its natural habitat in central Africa once it’s safe.
Zeytin’s Health and Behavior Improving After Rescue
Zeytin has gained weight and is becoming more active since his traumatic experience in the cargo hold.
“He’s no longer shy and plays independently,” shared Gulfem Esmen, a veterinarian caring for Zeytin at the zoo.
Istanbul Nature Conservation Director Fahrettin Ulu emphasized ensuring safe conditions before the gorilla is sent back.
Efforts are focused on guaranteeing that Zeytin’s return to the wild will not pose any further risks.
Istanbul Increasingly a Key Point in Wildlife Smuggling
Istanbul, a major air hub, is seeing a rise in intercepted cases of illegal animal trafficking through its airports.
In October, customs officers discovered Nile crocodiles and monitor lizards in a passenger’s luggage from Egypt.
Authorities have intensified inspections to combat the illegal wildlife trade and protect endangered species.
Both western and eastern gorillas remain critically endangered due to habitat loss and poaching across central Africa.
