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The oldest male gorilla in the UK has died two weeks after being moved to a new habitat at Bristol Zoo Project.

Jock, who was 42, had lived at Bristol Zoo for more than 20 years and was the zoo’s main breeding male.

He, along with seven other gorillas, had stayed in their existing home after the closure of Bristol Zoo in September 2022.

In a carefully managed operation they were moved to the zoo’s new site in South Gloucestershire several weeks ago.

Sarah Gedman, curator of mammals, said: “We are devastated to share that Jock, our silverback western lowland gorilla, has died. Two weeks ago, our troop of eight gorillas were moved from Bristol Zoo Gardens to their new home at Bristol Zoo Project as part of a carefully planned relocation.

“Since the move, our veterinary and animal care teams have continued to provide excellent care and round-the-clock monitoring. Jock was the oldest male gorilla in the UK, at 42 years, and had a number of pre-existing health conditions that are common for gorillas his age.

“Jock settled in well to the new habitat, however, 10 days after his arrival, he experienced a rapid deterioration in health. After a detailed assessment by our veterinary and animal care teams, the difficult decision was taken to peacefully euthanise Jock, which was the best outcome for his welfare.

“We’d like to thank everyone for their sympathy as we come to terms with this huge loss and encourage you to share your memories and photos of Jock on our social media channels. He will be so greatly missed by us all.”

Jock, the UK’s oldest silverback gorilla in his previous home at Bristol Zoo Gardens. Credit: Bristol Zoo Project

Jock, a silverback gorilla, moved to Bristol Zoo in 2003 from London Zoo at the age of 20. As a breeding male he has fathered several baby gorillas.

Bristol Zoological Society has cared for gorillas since the 1930s, contributing to the European captive breeding programme.

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