London Zoo mourns Bobby the poster boy

Bobby dazzler: the western lowland gorilla was hugely popular with visitors and the star of the Gorilla Kingdom

Bobby, the silverback gorilla who was the face of London Zoo, has died.

The 25-year old western lowland gorilla featured on thousands of posters and gained a worldwide following.

He was discovered dead in his nest this morning by keepers on their daily rounds. Staff were devastated. "He was a dearly loved resident and will be sadly missed by all," said a spokeswoman. "Our keepers are incredibly upset, and it is asked that everyone respect the feelings of staff during this difficult time."

The cause of Bobby's death is not yet known. Experts say it is unlikely to be age related. Western lowland gorillas have been estimated to live for between 30 and 35 years in the wild while their average life span is 35-45 years in zoos. The record is 54.

Bongo Junior, affectionately known as Bobby, arrived in London from Bristol Zoo in 2003. He was the star of the £5.3 million Gorilla Kingdom enclosure, which was opened by the Duke of Edinburgh in March last year. The exhibit has proved a huge success and has won several tourism awards. The zoo will hold a moment's remembrance next Wednesday, 10 December, at 3pm.

Ralph Armond, Director General of ZSL, said: "Staff, volunteers, and the public are devastated by the loss of London Zoo's gentle giant. Bobby leaves behind his family of keepers and three female gorillas, Mjukuu, nine, Effie, 15, and Zaire, 34."

ZSL staff described Bobby as "quite the ladies man".

An online book of condolence has been set up at www.zsl.org

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