Karachi Zoo’s beloved chimpanzee ‘Bibi’ passes away at 40
Karachi Zoo’s female chimpanzee, known as “Bibi,” has passed away at 40 years of age, according to a KMC spokesperson.
According to the post-mortem report, the female chimpanzee’s death was natural, as stated by KMC officials.
Bibi was captured in September 2000 during a joint operation by the police and wildlife departments in PECHS. She was handed over to the zoo, the spokesperson added.
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In February, Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah said that Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) should refrain from acquiring exotic foreign animals for the Zoo in the future, because they cannot survive in Karachi's environment.
He gave this advice during a meeting attended by Karachi Commissioner Syed Hassan Naqvi, Additional Chief Secretary Local Government Khalid Hyder Shah, Municipal Commissioner Afzal Zaidi, Deputy Commissioner South Javed Nabi, Director Recreation KMC, and staff from the Karachi Zoological and Botanical Garden.
Karachi Zoo houses around 850 animals and birds. No new animals have been purchased since 2012.
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The chief secretary said that due to a lack of suitable space, food, and environmental conditions, exotic animals often suffer from stress, diseases, and premature death. He advised that all animals in Karachi Zoo must be provided with food and healthcare facilities that meet international standards.
He assured that the Sindh government will provide the funds to ensure the well-being of the animals and birds. The CS ordered strict action against those involved in the illegal trade of animals and birds.
He directed the Sindh Wildlife Department and Commissioner Karachi to take immediate measures against illegal animal markets. Additionally, Chief Secretary Sindh directed Deputy Commissioner South to coordinate with the police, Wildlife Department, and Cantonment Board to completely eliminate illegal animal trade and shops in Saddar area.