You never know what is coming your way when you are a claims adjuster. In this particular case, the species of claim turned out to be highly unusual and potentially extremely valuable as a rare and exotic object.
Contents claims experts were put on the case for a valuation of a “Silverback Full Body-Sized Gorilla Mount, 7 feet in height” that had been stolen. When dealing with requests involving exotic animals, one of the first steps taken by contents experts is to determine the implications of laws governing “endangered species.” Such laws not only restrict the “taking” of these animals, but also establish strict restrictions and conditions upon the sale of or any product involving these animals.
Case Background
The family of Gorillas falls into one of two specific species: the Eastern or “Mountain Gorilla,” and the Western Lowland Gorilla. The Lowland Gorilla is an endangered species, while its cousin, the Mountain Gorilla is extremely endangered. To be legal to sell, the mount would have to have documented importation prior to a specific date, making authentic salable gorilla mounts very rare and thus very valuable.
To have a highly defensible opinion, the contents claims team had to determine exactly which species was involved, as well as the date and circumstances of importation. Contact with the owner found the mount had been passed down to him from his grandparents; however, “when” and “by whom” the animal was taken was unknown.
The contents team requested a photograph of the gorilla mount, which the owner sent to aid in the verification process. The body build of the two types of gorillas differ, and experts would be able to certainly solve the species puzzle with the image. However, the team still lacked documentation as to the legal status and salability of the mount which would be needed to proceed with the valuation.
Click “next” to the bottom right to find out how the team proceeded.
In reviewing the image, contents experts determined that the features of the mount were not consistent with those of an actual gorilla and actually looked like a costume gorilla suit mounted on a form. If the gorilla was real, the body would have been broader and thicker, and its head would be more oval-shaped with a prominent sagittal bony crest on the forehead.
The Result
In the end, the contents claims team concluded that it was not a real animal at all. In fact, it was nothing more than a prop. Life-sized gorilla props retail for about $6,900. If this had been an authentic, legal salable gorilla mount, dependent on species and condition, it could have had a value of $25,000 to $45,000 or more.
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