News / Bristol Zoo Project
Zoo mourns death of UK’s oldest silverback gorilla
The UK’s oldest silverback gorilla has passed away days after being moved from his long-time home to a new enclosure at Bristol Zoo Project.
Jock, a western lowland gorilla who spent the majority of his life at the former Bristol Zoo Gardens, was euthanised after his health rapidly deteriorated after relocating to a new habitat in South Gloucestershire.
Staff said the 42-year-old critically endangered animal, described as “geriatric”, passed away surrounded by his troop.
Sarah Gedman, curator of mammals at Bristol Zoo Project, said the team were “deeply saddened” by his death”, calling him as a silverback with a “huge legacy”.
The zoo’s new Central African Forest habitat is a purpose-built rainforest enclosure – image: Bristol Zoo Project
Jock had lived in Bristol for many years and fathered several infants, including Juni and Asani.
Until recently, the mammal was looked after at the old zoo site in Clifton following its closure in 2022 after 186 years.
Zookeepers moved him and his troop earlier in February to the zoo’s new habitat near Cribbs Causeway, a Central African Forest designed to provide more space and improve conditions.
The decision came after videos went in viral on social media in October 2025 claiming the mammals had been “abandoned” at the zoo’s former premises in Clifton.
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Gedman described the transfer of the eight gorillas that took place as an “absolutely great success”.
But within ten days of his arrival, zookeepers notices signs of decline including loss of appetite and lethargy.
Staff made what Gedman called the “difficult” decision to euthanise him, saying his welfare was their priority.
Jock’s species typically lives between 35 and 40 years in the wild.
Encouraging people to share their memories, Gedman added: “We please ask for you to take this time to celebrate his life.
“Jock was a fantastic silverback, and I know many of you have very fond memories of him.
“So please do join us in remembering those times.”
Main photo: Bristol Zoological Society
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