Lincoln Park Zoo Creates Ape Blood Database
CHICAGO (WBBM) -- The world's first blood bank was created at Cook County Hospital in 1937, and now, the Lincoln Park Zoo has begun a registry of ape blood types.
As WBBM Newsradio 780's Nancy Harty reports, a failed blood transfusion between two gorillas five years ago prompted a Lincoln Park Zoo ape handler and veterinarian to record all blood types – of gorillas, orangutans, chimpanzees and bonobos.
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The Chicago Tribune reports it has taken several years to compile a list of blood types from apes all over the world, who are not fond of needles.
But now that the types are known, zoos can start blood banks and perform more complicated medical procedures.
