A ZOO boss is back in the UK after performing life-saving surgery on a gorilla at an African primate sanctuary.
Sharon Redrobe, zoological director at Twycross Zoo, and a team of vets visited Ape Action Africa, a primate charity in Cameroon.
While at the centre they performed surgery on Shufai, a ten-year-old gorilla who was shot in the wrist by poachers as a baby.
X-rays showed the damage to Shufai’s wrist had worsened, and the decision was made to amputate his arm above the elbow.
Ms Redrobe said: “Since returning from Cameroon reports from the sanctuary tell me Shufai is healing well from his surgery and he has even been spotted in the forest chest-beating with one arm.”
Rachel Hogan, director of Ape Action Africa, said: “It was hard for the whole team but seeing Shufai back with his family group is a huge relief and he can now look forward to a pain free life.
“I can’t thank the vet team enough for the incredible work they did and their support.”
