Paignton Zoo announces death of beloved animal

Sarah Lumley
·2-min read
The UK's oldest silverback gorilla, has died at the age of 42
-Credit: (Image: Miriam Haas)


Paignton Zoo is mourning the loss of Pertinax, the UK's oldest silverback gorilla, who has passed away at the grand age of 42. The cherished western lowland gorilla had been a fixture at the Devon-based zoo for nearly 30 years after arriving from Germany in 1997.

He was a key figure in the zoo's Ape Centre, which was inaugurated by Prince Philip in 1998, and gained fame as Hank in the CBBC series 'The Zoo' during 2017 and 2018. Pertinax won the hearts of many visitors with his serene yet mischievous nature, earning him the label "special" from the zoo staff.

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Throughout his tenure at Paignton Zoo, he played a pivotal role in nurturing the younger male gorillas, particularly Kiondo, Kivu, and N'Dowe, who arrived in 2006 and continue to reside at the zoo.

In his twilight years, Pertinax relished a tranquil "retirement", spending time on his island and partaking in activities set up by his keepers, with whom he shared a profound connection. He even developed an affinity for music, enjoying the songs sung by his carers.

Today - Tuesday- zookeepers faced the heart-wrenching decision to euthanise Pertinax after he failed to improve from an ongoing illness, despite their best efforts and care.

A spokesperson for Paignton Zoo expressed their deep sense of loss: "We feel incredibly privileged to have cared for Pertinax for nearly three decades. He was truly one-of-a-kind, and his loss will be felt deeply by our community, especially by his keepers who knew him best. We humbly ask for your support and kindness during this difficult time."

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