By Kristy Inus | news@nst.com.my
KOTA KINABALU: Gelugob, one of only ten Sumatran rhinoceros in captivity worldwide, has died of old age here at the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park.Her age was estimated at 37 years. There are probably less that 150 Sumatran rhinos left in the wild today, in Sumatra and Borneo.
Park veterinarian, Dr Rosa Sipangkui said in early January her condition suddenly went downhill; "she refused to drink and ate very little."
"Despite the best efforts of our Veterinary team her condition continued to deteriorate and on the evening of 11th January she passed away ”.
Assistant Wildlife Department director Dr Sen Nathan said Gelugob is believed to have been the oldest prior to her death.
"The last Sumatran rhino to die in captivity was a 33 year old male in Cincinnati Zoo, USA.
"Gelugob was rescued from Bulud Napa, Kinabatangan in 1994. Her age at that time of capture was estimated at around 16-17 years old," Sen said.
“Though the death of Gelugob is a great loss, this only furthers our determination to do whatever we can to save this species from extinction,” said Datuk Dr Laurentius Ambu, Director of the Sabah Wildlife Department.