Zeytin, protected under CITES, is being sent to Nigeria for rehabilitation

The General Directorate of Nature Conservation and National Parks (DKMP) made a statement on its social media account regarding the baby gorilla that was attempted to be transported through Istanbul Airport without the 'Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES)' documentation. The statement noted that the gorilla had been carefully protected under the supervision of veterinarians and expert caregivers from the very first moment, stating, "We knew that this special creature, whose species is endangered, was under protection through international conventions (CITES). With the support of our citizens, we named it 'Zeytin'. It is no longer just an animal; it is a symbol of our respect for nature, innocence, and life."

Following the process conducted with the CITES Secretariat and relevant institutions, it was stated that the procedures for returning Zeytin to Nigeria had been initiated, provided that it is cared for only in a rehabilitation center. The statement emphasized that during Zeytin's return process, animal welfare was prioritized, taking into account criteria such as security against illegal trade, appropriate climatic conditions, and the minimization of stress.

The statement included the following remarks: "We raised it with love, and now it is returning to nature as a beacon of hope. By conducting the entire process with transparency, we continue our efforts to protect endangered species with determination."

Zeytin will be sent to the rehabilitation center in Nigeria, where it will be closer to its natural life, via Turkish Airlines (THY) in a safe journey compliant with the rules of the International Air Transport Association (IATA).