Beloved Paignton Zoo gorilla dies

Kivu, a 22-year-old western lowland gorilla at Paignton Zoo, has died.

The zoo announced on Facebook that Kivu died today, Thursday, February 13, after failing to recover from anaesthesia.

In recent weeks, Kivu’s keepers had noticed changes in his behaviour and eating habits, leading to rapid weight loss.

A spokesperson for the zoo said: "Following these observations, we made the decision to conduct a thorough health assessment. Despite the expertise of our veterinary staff and all possible precautions being taken, Kivu did not regain conciousnesses after the procedure."

The zoo confirmed that its remaining gorillas, Kiondo and N'Dowe, appear to be in good health and will continue to be closely monitored.

Kivu was born at Barcelona Zoo and arrived at Paignton Zoo in 2006. He was part of the zoo’s bachelor gorilla group and starred as 'Geoffrey' in CBBC's The Zoo, a comedy series told from the animals’ perspective.

As a young gorilla, he was mentored by the zoo's late gorilla, Pertinax, who died at the age of 42 as the UK's oldest living silverback.

This helped him form strong bonds with his companions, Kiondo and N'Dowe.

The spokesperson continued: "Bachelor groups like Kivu's play a vital role in gorilla conservation, providing essential social environments for male gorillas while supporting sustainable breeding programmes worldwide. Our two remaining gorillas, Kiondo and N'Dowe, appear to be in good health and will continue to be closely monitored by their dedicated keepers.

"We understand that many visitors formed special connections with Kivu over the years, and his passing will be deeply felt. The zoo welcomes messages of condolence, which can be shared with Kivu's keeper team who knew him best."

The Ape Centre will remain closed for the next couple of days.