Female Orangutan Dies At Indianapolis Zoo, Leaves Behind Son

INDIANAPOLIS, IN — The Indianapolis Zoo announced Wednesday, Nov. 7 the death of their rescued orangutan, Kim. According to the zoo, 39-year-old Kim died Tuesday, which the zoo said was a "very difficult day." The zoo released a statement on Facebook regarding the "sweet and gentle" orangutan's death.

"A necropsy (animal equivalent of an autopsy) showed she had respiratory disease. She and her son Max came here in 2016 in poor condition — Kim was obese and suffered from respiratory symptoms, and her infant Max was failing to thrive. Since arriving, Kim’s condition improved after losing weight, but her respiratory issues remained. "

The zoo added that Max was diagnosed with hypothyroidism, but thanks to daily medication he's able to thrive. He also has a special bond with an adult female orangutan named Knobi, who's become a surrogate for the almost 3-year-old male.

More: Lioness Kills Her Mate At Indy Zoo And No One Knows Why

It's been a difficult few weeks for the zoo as the orangutan's death follows the October death of Nyack, a 10-year-old African lion, who died of injuries sustained when his mate attacked him, the Indianapolis Zoo said.

Image credited to Indianapolis Zoo