The incident, which took place at the Cincinnati Zoo in 2016, sparked widespread public discourse and debate over zoo safety measures, animal rights, and the ethics of captivity. The video footage captured of Harambe interacting with the young boy who accidentally fell into the enclosure has been scrutinized by experts to understand the gorilla’s intentions and stress levels during those critical moments.

Many experts agree that Harambe’s behavior showed signs of protective instincts, as gorillas are known to exhibit nurturing behavior towards their young. Despite the danger posed by the situation, some argue that Harambe may not have intended to harm the child. However, the unpredictable nature of such interactions led to the controversial decision to prioritize human safety by using lethal force.

In response to the incident, zoos worldwide have been re-evaluating their safety protocols and emergency response strategies to prevent similar occurrences. This includes reviewing enclosure designs, improving surveillance measures, and enhancing staff training for swift and effective action in crisis scenarios.