Tragedy at Duisburg Zoo: Three Koalas Die from Gastrointestinal Illness

The zoo mourns the loss of Tinaroo, Gooni, and a young joey, while efforts continue to save two other ailing koalas.

Three koalas at Duisburg Zoo, including a male named Tinaroo, a female named Gooni, and an 11-month-old joey, have died due to severe gastrointestinal issues.
The zoo's medical team conducted extensive tests including blood work, ultrasounds, and CT scans to diagnose the conditions, revealing a shift in the microbiome as a critical factor.
Koalas are particularly vulnerable to digestive tract changes due to their exclusive eucalyptus diet, which relies on a delicate balance of gut bacteria.
Two additional koalas are currently receiving intensive treatment and monitoring for similar symptoms, with the zoo collaborating closely with Australian koala experts.
The Koala House at the zoo is temporarily closed to provide a calm environment for the sick animals, while the zoo community receives widespread support from the public.