– Delilah, oldest gorilla in world, dies at Belfast Zoo
– Oldest gorilla Delilah passes away at Belfast Zoo.
Delilah, one of the Oldest Gorillas in the World, Passes Away at Belfast Zoo
One of the world’s oldest gorillas, Delilah, has sadly passed away at Belfast Zoo. Delilah, who gained fame for her appearances on the show Animal Magic with Johnny Morris, had been a beloved resident of the zoo for an impressive 32 years. Her passing comes just a few months after the zoo celebrated her remarkable 60th birthday.
A Life Well-Lived
Delilah had been given special care in her later years, including a specialized diet and daily medication in the form of baby porridge. The dedicated veterinary team and keepers at Belfast Zoo worked closely together to ensure any health issues were promptly addressed. They also made sure that Delilah remained active and engaged by providing enrichment activities and interactions.
Thanks to their efforts, Delilah maintained her fitness and continued to play a vital role within her family group, contributing to her long and happy life.
A Difficult Decision
Unfortunately, Delilah recently developed a chest infection, and in order to prevent further decline in her condition, the difficult decision was made to euthanize her. The zoo team expressed deep sadness over her loss, emphasizing the profound impact she had on both keepers and visitors during her time at Belfast Zoo.
A Well-Loved Character
Over the years, visitors to the zoo delighted in watching Delilah interact with the young gorillas and even witnessed her scaling the highest points of the climbing frame, much to their surprise. Delilah joined Belfast Zoo in 1992, becoming part of the first gorilla group there. Prior to her time at the zoo, she captured the nation’s heart through her appearances on Animal Magic with Johnny Morris, where she helped raise awareness about Western Lowland Gorillas and educate the public about this remarkable species.
Western Lowland Gorillas, like Delilah, are classified as Critically Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), making Delilah’s life and legacy all the more significant.
A Fond Farewell
Julie Mansell, the zoo curator, spoke fondly of Delilah, describing her as a character who had been a cherished part of Belfast Zoo for many years. Delilah had a playful nature and enjoyed the company of the younger gorillas, but she also knew how to keep them in line. Despite occasionally displaying a grumpy side, those who had the privilege of working with her quickly developed a deep fondness for her.
While her advanced age meant that this day would inevitably come, it is still a difficult time for everyone who had the pleasure of knowing Delilah during her time at Belfast Zoo.
Delilah’s passing leaves behind a legacy of love, education, and conservation efforts for future generations to cherish and continue. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
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1. Delilah oldest gorilla dies at Belfast Zoo
2. Belfast Zoo mourns loss of Delilah, one of the world’s oldest gorillas.
