We are devastated to share that Bristol Zoo's gorilla Jock has died
Bristol Zoo has announced the death of its beloved silverback gorilla - just two weeks after moving to his new home.
Jock, the oldest male gorilla in the UK and one of Bristol Zoo Project’s troop of eight gorillas, has died aged 42.
The zoo said it took the “difficult decision” to euthanise Jock, who had a number of pre-existing health conditions.
It said he experienced a “rapid deterioration in health” ten days after being moved from the old Bristol Zoo Gardens site in Clifton to Bristol Zoo Project in South Gloucestershire, despite “settling in well”.
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In a Facebook post, Bristol Zoo Project wrote: “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 joined Bristol Zoo from London Zoo in 2003 at the age of 20, fathering several infants over the years.