Saint Louis, MO – On Sunday, the Saint Louis Zoo announced the death of a beloved Gorilla who died in his sleep. According to the zoo, 26-year-old Little Joe died from a heart attack on May 4.
In a release, the agency said:
It is with incredible sadness that we share news that western lowland gorilla Little Joe, who had been under treatment for heart disease, passed away of a heart attack overnight on May 4th. Based on video monitoring, it appears he died in his sleep.
Little Joe was adored by visitors and staff, and he was known to hang out near the guest viewing areas to people watch.
The zoo added, “Joe has been an integral part of the Zoo’s bachelor gorilla group since he arrived, most recently getting to know juvenile males Kayin and Zachary as they settled into their new home, as well as hanging out with his long-time gorilla buddy, Bakari. Joe’s wonderful personality and lovable grumpy face endeared him to all who worked with him. He will be greatly missed.”
Gorillas can live more than 50 years in captivity, and typically 35 to 40 years in the wild.
Rest in peace Little Joe.
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