The beloved mountain gorilla, who became famous worldwide for taking a selfie with an anti-poaching patrol member, has recently passed away at the age of 14. Its majestic creature died in the arms of the man who saved her while she was still a toddler.
A heartbreaking photo posted to Instagram by Virunga National Park shows two lifelong friends being last closer. Ndakasi can be seen resting her head on the chest of her guardian and guardian Andre Baum before taking her last breath. The two went viral after posing for a selfie a few years ago.
“Virunga is deeply saddened to announce the death of Ndakasi, a beloved orphan mountain gorilla who has been cared for by the Senkekwe Center in the park for over 10 years. “On the evening of September 26, after a prolonged battle with a condition that rapidly deteriorated her condition, Ndakasi gave her last breath in the loving embrace of her protector and lifelong friend Andre Bauma.”
Like all other primates living in Virunga Park in Congo, Ndakasi was a symbol of hope and determination. A perfect example of how poaching these wonderful creatures must endure. Ndakasi was first brought to the Senkwekwe center in Viruga Park when he was two months old. Then she was rescued by her park keeper after losing her mother to her poaching.
The endangered mountain gorilla Viruga is guarded by more than 600 loyal rangers who are always willing to risk their lives to protect this docile giant. The wonderful friendship between Ndakasi and Andre demonstrates the deep and special bond shared between innocent souls and the Rangers!