LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – A spokesperson with the Little Rock Zoo announced the death of its newest orangutan.
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Kota, the youngest male orangutan at the zoo, died this week due to encephalitis, or lesions on the brain, according to zoo caretakers.
A zoo spokesperson said a caretaker noticed Kota was beginning to show signs of lethargy and although specialists were contacted to assist, Kota’s health continued to decline.
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According to a release by the zoo, gross necropsy showed lesions on Kota’s brain indicative of diffuse encephalopathy, or widespread dysfunction of the brain and brain hemorrhaging. Lab sample results should reveal a more specific cause.
“Kota quickly captured the hearts of guests and staff and will be greatly missed by all,” a zoo caretaker said.
Kota was born at the Little Rock Zoo on February 23, 2024, and was the son of Berani and Bandar. He was the second baby born to the pair after Kasih was born in 2019…