On May 12th around 4pm, Kahuzi Biega National Park staff received a call from Bukavu Harbor authorities, reporting that a military man was caught trying to smuggle an infant chimpanzee to sell on the black market. The park staff responded quickly and transported the infant to Lwiro, a DRC sanctuary for rescued primates. Dr. Martin worked with Kahuzi Biega National Park veterinarian Dr. Kizito to assess and treat the infant chimpanzee once she was safe and settled at Lwiro. The female infant was named Kindu after the nearby village where she was reportedly poached.

Infant chimpanzee Kindu in DRC

Infant chimpanzee Kindu in DRC

Dr. Martin reports that the baby was weak, dehydrated, and traumatized but had a good appetite and was rehydrated with lactated ringers, juice and milk. She weighs just 4kg and tested positive for intestinal parasites and had a productive cough.

Orphan chimp Kindu resting and receiving much needed fluids at Lwiro.

Orphan chimp Kindu resting and receiving much needed fluids at Lwiro.

Dr. Martin administered antibiotics to treat the respiratory infection and deworming medication to treat the intestinal parasites. Caretakers will continue to closely monitor her condition at Lwiro and report progress to Drs. Eddy and Martin in the coming days and weeks. Once she is a little bit older, Kindu will join a group of rescued youngsters that reside at the sanctuary and will continue to receive veterinary care from Gorilla Doctors should she need it in the future.

*Update*

Lwiro Sanctuary reports that Kindu is beginning to feel much better post-treatment and is even starting to smile and play with her caregivers! Way to go little Kindu!

Orphan chimpanzee Kindu. Image courtesy of Lwiro Primates. www.lwiroprimates.org

Orphan chimpanzee Kindu. Image courtesy of Lwiro Primates. www.lwiroprimates.org