The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium is greatly saddened to announce the sudden passing of its western lowland gorilla silverback, Djembe, known as Ivan to the public.

Ivan suffered cardiac arrest while undergoing a medical procedure at the Zoo yesterday, October 23, 2024. The Zoo’s highly qualified veterinary team was supported by a group of outside experts, including a double board-certified specialist in zoological medicine and anesthesiology, a cardiologist, and an emergency pulmonary cardiologist.

Though Ivan showed no pre-existing conditions, gorillas – whose hearts are very similar to human hearts – are known for being highly susceptible to cardiac disease which led to additional specialist care. The Zoo veterinary team engaged cardiologists to offer their support and expertise for the preparation and the procedure. A post-mortem examination is being conducted.

Ivan was born at the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium on April 11, 2013, and quickly became a much-adored member of the Zoo’s troop of gorillas. “Ivan was hand-raised by extremely hard-working staff and volunteers who spent 24 hours a day with him for about five months before they were able to successfully reintroduce him to his troop,” said Curator of Mammals Kelsey Forbes. “He was known and loved for his deep happy rumbles and playful personality. He always put a smile on keepers’ faces with his antics.”

A favorite among staff and guests alike, Ivan will be greatly missed. A loss among the residents is always devastating, but it is particularly difficult with a beloved animal like Ivan who inspired and impacted countless Zoo guests as an ambassador of his species. Zoo guests are welcome to share their memories of Ivan on our social media pages.