Gandali makes full recovery

Published on 06 September 2023

Rockhampton Zoo is pleased to inform that following prompt veterinary care yesterday, Gandali, Rockhampton’s three year old chimp has re-joined his troop this morning.

Gandali received a brown snake bite within the enclosure yesterday, and thankfully with the Zoo’s keepers and veterinarian responding so quickly, Gandali was able to receive urgent medical attention.  

Parks, Sport and Public Places Portfolio Councillor Cherie Rutherford said Gandali was carefully observed overnight, and encouragingly, began displaying a positive response to the antivenin treatment.

“Gandali returned to the Rockhampton Zoo this morning where he is slowly being reintroduced to the troop.  He has already been reunited with his surrogate mother, Samantha, with both of them running into each other’s arms, which was just beautiful,” Cr Rutherford said.

“This reintegration process will see Gandali have one on one introductions with the chimpanzees to allow for the troop dynamic to readjust, which is an important process when a chimp has left the troop and returned, even for a short period of time.

“The Rockhampton Zookeepers will be closely monitoring Gandali and the troop during this time.

“I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our Rockhampton Zoo team and our local vet team for their swift response and expert care, and also the overwhelming concern and support from our community who has Gandali in their thoughts.”