A young gorilla, Titus, had a harrowing experience on a recent flight. The 37-pound primate, who was being transported from Brownsville, Texas, to the Cincinnati Zoo, was accidentally loaded into the cargo hold of the wrong plane and ended up in Las Vegas. The error was quickly discovered, and the 5-year-old gorilla was transferred to the correct plane and continued his journey safely.
As per the Cincinnati Zoo, the gorilla was being moved to Ohio to join a social group of gorillas that includes a potential mate for him. The move is part of a carefully coordinated initiative by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan (SSP). The SSP aims at preserving the population of endangered or threatened species in human care.
Despite the initial fright, the gorilla was unharmed by the incident. A spokesperson for the Cincinnati Zoo, Michelle Curley, confirmed that Titus was safe and in good health. She also ensured that the zoo would keep a close watch on him and give him time to settle in and adjust to his new environment.
On a similar note, this isn't the first time an incident like this has happened. In 2017, a giant rabbit named Simon died while being transported in the cargo hold of an airplane. The incident drew attention to the potential risks and welfare issues related to the transportation of animals via air cargo.
According to the US Department of Transportation, 24 animals died while being transported on airlines in 2016. The Humane Society of the United States urges against transporting pets in the cargo hold, citing the risk of temperature fluctuations, poor ventilation, and rough handling.
While Titus' story has a happy ending, it serves as a reminder of the possible dangers and stresses animals can face when being transported. It also underlines the need for stricter regulations and better handling of animals during air travel.