The gorilla troop at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is recovering following the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19 in humans, in several troop members earlier this month.

San Diego Zoo Global welcomed a new member to its executive leadership team this month: David Gillig has been named chief philanthropy officer of San Diego Zoo Global. In his new role, Gillig will lead the nonprofit conservation organization’s crucial fundraising efforts to support further growth of the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park, while also raising the bar on the organization’s commitment to support worldwide conservation efforts in service to the mission of saving endangered wildlife.

Members of the Gorilla Troop at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park have tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. On Wednesday, January 6, two of the gorillas began coughing. Given current circumstances, San Diego Zoo Global initiated the process of testing fecal samples from the gorillas for SARS-CoV-2 through the California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CA HFS). 

Although the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park are closed to guests, the animals are still celebrating the holidays. Wildlife care specialists created holiday wreaths for the pygmy hippos and takins at the Zoo and for the elephants at the Safari Park.