Zoo Miami is deeply saddened to announce the death of “J.J.,” the 34 year old silverback lowland gorilla who had become an iconic favorite to millions of zoo visitors for over three decades. For the past several days, J.J. had become very lethargic along with displaying signs of gastro-intestinal distress such as diarrhea and loss of appetite. Though the gastro-intestinal issues appeared to be responding to treatment, he still appeared weak and lethargic. Because J.J. had a history of cardiac related problems such as hypertension that he was being treated for, the veterinary team decided to immobilize him so that a closer examination could be performed. Though there were no glaring signs of any critical advances in his heart disease, blood was drawn, X-rays were taken, and a variety of other tests were done including an echocardiogram. In addition, an upper pre-molar that was loose and infected was extracted. J.J. personified the term, “gentle giant.” He was an excellent father who displayed extraordinary patience with his mischievous daughters and was a protective patriarch who kept order within the troop without being overly domineering. He will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege to know him. Photos by Ron Magill
Posted on: Sat, 04 Oct 2014 18:25:43 +0000
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