DENVER (KNX) — Two spotted hyenas have tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, the Denver Zoo revealed. It's a first worldwide for the species.
Ngozi, 22, and Kibo, 23, are believed to be the first hyenas worldwide to contract the virus, according to the zoo which made the announcement earlier this month.
Animal care staff noted both animals “have extremely mild symptoms, including slight lethargy, some nasal discharge and occasional coughs”, the zoo tweeted.
Officials say the hyenas were tested after eleven lions at the same zoo tested positive for the virus. Two tigers also tested positive but have since recovered.
Multiple animal species worldwide have tested positive for the virus, including at Zoos in Washington, Nebraska, California, and New York among other places, according to the New York Times.
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