The Doctor and the Gorilla

When Professor Chris van Tulleken was invited to London Zoo early in his career to help diagnose a poorly gorilla named Kesho, he expected to analyse a sample in a lab. What followed was a case he would never forget.

In this episode of Wildest Moments, host Ben Fogle speaks with the doctor, scientist and broadcaster about the moment he came face-to-face with the western lowland gorilla - and the joint investigation that uncovered a rare chromosomal condition.

Joining the conversation is ZSL Animal Manager Dan Simmonds, who cared for Kesho at the time as a zookeeper. Together, they explore the importance of collaboration across medical disciplines - from veterinary science to human medicine - in understanding and protecting the health of all species.

It's a powerful story about curiosity, connection, and how the health of people, animals and ecosystems is deeply intertwined.

About Wildest Moments:Hosted by Ben Fogle and created in partnership with Mountain Warehouse, Wildest Moments is a podcast from ZSL (Zoological Society of London) exploring the surprising, emotional and transformative encounters people have had with wildlife. New episodes are released on the third Thursday of every month. Launched as part of ZSL's 200th anniversary, the series celebrates over two centuries of inspiring closer connections between people and the natural world.

Executive Producers - Rami Tzabar, Jane Gerber and Katie Derham

Senior Producer - Naomi Oiku

Production Supervisor - Mia Xerri Mondragon

ZSL editorial leads: Tina Campanella and Rebecca Blanchard

Sound Design and Additional Editing - Nada Smiljanić

Sound Engineer - Jon Last

Video Editor - Carla Mercer

Cover Art - Will Rose