The oldest male gorilla in the UK has died days after he was moved to a new home.
Jock, 42, who spent the majority of his life at Bristol Zoo Project’s Clifton site, had several pre-existing health conditions which are common in gorillas his age.
In the wild, western lowland gorilla silverbacks typically live up to between 35 and 40, and face threats like poaching, habitat destruction, and health issues such as tooth loss as they age.
Jock’s health deteriorated 10 days after his relocation to a site near Cribbs Causeway and the decision was taken to euthanise him.
The zoo said it was too early to determine the cause of Jock’s illness.
However, a review will be carried out.
Sarah Gedman, curator of mammals, said: “The decision to let Jock go peacefully was made with his comfort and quality of life in mind, a testament to the deep bonds between him and the people who cared for him every day.
“Jock’s legacy at Bristol Zoo, as a leader, father, and ambassador for his species, will live on through the gorillas he helped raise and the countless people he inspired.
“His life was a reminder of both the beauty and fragility of wildlife, and the importance of conservation efforts everywhere.
“This is a really difficult time for the keepers and all colleagues and volunteers here.
“We all feel we have lost a friend in Jock and will always remember him so fondly.”
Jock was part of a troop of eight at the zoo.
They had recently moved to a new enclosure which was four-and-a-half times larger than their old home and set in a local woodland.
Jock was born in 1983 in France and arrived at Bristol Zoo in 2003.
He became a central figure in the gorilla troop for more than two decades.
He played a vital role in the breeding programme for critically endangered western lowland gorillas, fathering several infants, including Namoki, Komale, Kukena, Juni, and Hasani.
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