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Gorillas' Viral Window Bangs at Abandoned Bristol Zoo
27 Feb
Summary
- Western lowland gorillas were filmed banging on windows at the closed Bristol Zoo.
- The silverback leader, Jock, was euthanized due to age-related health issues.
- Gorillas are receiving extra enrichment and care after the recent relocation.
A troop of western lowland gorillas at Bristol Zoo's old Clifton site went viral after urban explorers filmed them pounding on enclosure windows. This occurred after the zoo closed to visitors in 2022, leaving the animals without public interaction for over a year.
The eight gorillas, including the 45-year-old silverback Jock, were eventually relocated to a new Central African forest habitat at Bristol Zoo Project earlier this month. Jock, born in France in 1981, was a significant participant in Europe's breeding program for the critically endangered species.
Tragically, Jock's health rapidly declined just 10 days after his arrival at the new site. On February 26, 2026, Bristol Zoo Project announced that the UK's oldest male gorilla had been euthanized. This decision was made due to his age-related health issues and was deemed the best course of action for his well-being.
Jock fathered several offspring, contributing to the troop's strength over his two decades at Bristol Zoo. His legacy as a leader and father continues through the gorillas he helped raise. The remaining gorillas are under close observation, receiving extra enrichment and care from mourning staff who have lost a friend and colleague.
