Baby gorilla seized from traffickers languishes in Turkish zoo
The Jane Goodall Institute Global expresses its deep concern and genuine hope regarding the future of Zeytin, a baby gorilla currently held in a Turkish zoo after being rescued from an illegal trafficking operation.
Zeytin’s story is heartbreaking. He was found concealed in a cargo shipment at Istanbul Airport, a victim of a cruel trade that treats living beings as objects. Today, he remains in captivity—far from the forests of Africa, far from the companionship of his own kind, and far from the care he urgently needs.
Gorillas are intelligent, emotional creatures. Like human children, they need nurturing, social bonds, and space to grow. Zeytin is still very young, and this is a critical time in his development. Every day spent in isolation risks long-term harm to his physical and emotional well-being.
We understand and respect the efforts made to protect Zeytin so far. Our message is one of collaboration and shared purpose: to ensure the best possible outcome for Zeytin, based on scientific knowledge and compassionate care. His case presents an opportunity to work together towards a solution that prioritises his welfare and respects the dignity of all living beings.
We believe Zeytin deserves the chance to heal and thrive in a place designed for his species—a sanctuary in Africa, where he can be cared for by experts, live among other gorillas, and begin the journey towards a more natural life.
The Jane Goodall Institute stands ready to support any steps that may lead to Zeytin’s relocation to a sanctuary equipped to meet his needs. We invite the public to learn more about his case and read our full Policy Statement, which outlines the ethical and practical considerations behind this proposal.
Let’s give Zeytin the future he deserves. Let’s bring him home—while there’s still time.
Photo credits: Anadolu Ajansi
*Dr. Goodall and the Jane Goodall Institute do not endorse handling or close proximity to wildlife. This imagery shows Zeytin in temporary captive conditions following seizure.*