UK's Oldest Male Gorilla Dies Shortly After Move to New Enclosure
The United Kingdom's oldest male gorilla has been euthanised merely days after being transferred to a new home. Jock, a 42-year-old western lowland gorilla silverback, passed away following a swift decline in his health condition after the relocation.
Health Deterioration and Difficult Decision
Jock, who spent the majority of his life at Bristol Zoo Project's original Clifton site, was moved to a significantly larger new enclosure near Cribbs Causeway. The new habitat was four-and-a-half times larger than the previous one and situated within a local woodland setting. Unfortunately, just ten days after the transfer, Jock's health began to deteriorate sharply.
The zoo confirmed that the beloved gorilla had several pre-existing health conditions commonly found in gorillas of his advanced age. In their natural habitat, western lowland gorilla silverbacks typically live between 35 and 40 years, facing numerous threats including poaching, habitat destruction, and age-related health issues such as tooth loss.
Sarah Gedman, curator of mammals at Bristol Zoo Project, explained: "The decision to let Jock go peacefully was made with his comfort and quality of life as the primary consideration. This choice reflects the deep bonds that existed between Jock and the dedicated team who cared for him daily."
Jock's Legacy and Conservation Impact
Born in France in 1983, Jock arrived at Bristol Zoo in 2003 and quickly became a central figure within the gorilla troop for over two decades. He played a crucial role in the breeding programme for critically endangered western lowland gorillas, fathering several infants including Namoki, Komale, Kukena, Juni, and Hasani.
Gedman emphasized Jock's enduring legacy: "Jock's influence at Bristol Zoo, as a leader, father, and ambassador for his species, will continue through the gorillas he helped raise and the countless individuals he inspired. His life served as a powerful reminder of both the beauty and fragility of wildlife, highlighting the vital importance of conservation efforts worldwide."
Investigation and Emotional Impact
The zoo administration stated that it remains too early to determine the precise cause of Jock's sudden illness, though a comprehensive review will be conducted to examine the circumstances surrounding his decline. The gorilla was part of a troop of eight individuals who had all recently transitioned to the new, expansive enclosure.
The loss has profoundly affected the zoo community. Gedman acknowledged: "This represents an exceptionally difficult period for our keepers, all colleagues, and volunteers. We collectively feel we have lost a dear friend in Jock and will always remember him with tremendous affection."
Jock's story underscores the complex challenges facing wildlife conservation efforts, particularly regarding the care and management of aging animals within captive breeding programmes designed to protect endangered species from extinction.
