Adelaide Zoo is navigating a period of profound sadness following a series of animal deaths, with the recent loss of two cherished Colobus monkeys bringing the total to nine since October last year. The zoo community is mourning Adale and Jasiri, a close-knit pair who were integral members of their primate troop.
A Devastating Blow for the Primate Troop
Adale, a devoted mother, passed away suddenly after a brief illness, despite the zoo's veterinary team providing intensive care. Her companion, Jasiri, was humanely euthanised soon after when veterinarians diagnosed him with serious, untreatable health conditions. The zoo announced the double tragedy on Friday, highlighting the deep bond shared by the pair.
"Adale and Jasiri were a lovely, close-knit family unit," said Adelaide Zoo curator Deb. "It's a real loss for the troop and for our keeper team. They were deeply loved and will be missed." In a small comfort, the pair's infant is reported to be in good health and is receiving strong communal care from the zoo's other monkeys.
A Wider Pattern of Loss for Australian Zoos
This announcement follows seven other confirmed animal deaths at Adelaide Zoo since October 2024, with most attributed to age-related conditions. The zoo's only African lions, Mujambi and Amani, were euthanised due to medical complications. Niari, the institution's last female mandrill, was put down after developing a spinal condition.
Other significant losses included Chappi, a 22-year-old baboon, and Ady, one of Australia's oldest sea lions in captivity. Ady's death marked the end of the zoo's sea lion exhibit. Across the state, Zoos Victoria has reported eight animal deaths in the past year, including Melbourne Zoo's beloved gorilla Kimya, who died suddenly from bacterial sepsis, and a lion cub lost to illness.
The Natural Cycle and Commitment to Care
A spokesperson for Zoos SA acknowledged the deep impact of these losses while framing them as part of life's natural progression. "For each of these animals, we are witness to the full circle of life – the moments of both joy, and sadness," they told 7NEWS.com.au.
The spokesperson reaffirmed the organisation's primary focus: "At Adelaide Zoo, our number one priority is to ensure the optimal health and welfare of all animals in our care, treating every individual with dignity and respect." It is noted that animals in professional zoo care often live years longer than their wild counterparts due to comprehensive healthcare and high-quality husbandry.
Despite the recent tragedies, Adelaide Zoo continues to provide proactive medical support and enriched lives for its many aged animals, with keepers and veterinarians working closely to monitor their wellbeing.
