Paignton Zoo mourns the loss of Pertinax, the UK’s oldest silverback gorilla

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Pertinax, our beloved western lowland gorilla. At the age of 42, Pertinax was the UK’s oldest silverback.

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Pertinax, our beloved western lowland gorilla. At the age of 42, Pertinax was the UK’s oldest silverback.

Since his arrival 27 years ago, Pertinax quickly became a fond favourite among our supporters and regular visitors. We knew immediately that he was special, thanks to his calm yet somewhat cheeky personality. During his time with us, he became something of a celebrity, inspiring books and even starring as Hank in CBBC’s ‘The Zoo’.

Pertinax first arrived at Paignton Zoo from Germany in 1997. Along with his friend Claus, the two males became the first residents of the new Ape Centre, a bespoke new home for our gorillas and orangutans that had been funded by the generous donation of Paignton Zoo benefactor, Marie Le Fevre.

During his time here, Pertinax had been a father figure to many young gorillas, nurturing three different groups of males. In 2006, he was joined by our current younger males; Kiondo, Kivu and N’Dowe. As before, Pertinax took an active role in raising them into the gentle, sociable silverbacks that they are today.

After the three came of age, Pertinax moved into a well-earned ‘retirement’, giving him his own space away from the boisterous teens. In these later years, his personality mellowed even more, and he would spend his days leisurely exploring his island and enjoying the enrichment provided by his keepers, who had formed very close bonds with. He even discovered a love for music, particularly when his keepers would sing for him.

These keepers, along with our dedicated veterinary team, were with him when he passed away on 25 June 2024. Pertinax had been showing symptoms of an underlying illness, which had not responded to extensive treatment, so the difficult decision to euthanise him was made, as it was the kindest option.

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.