Reid Park Zoo has announced the loss of 47-year-old gibbon, Moms, and 4-year-old female ostrich, Lucy.
According to a media release, Moms was euthanized July 8 due to age-related health issues. Moms was one of the oldest Gibbons in the United States.
The veterinary staff at Reid Park Zoo had been managing the health of Moms closely and determined humane euthanasia was the best course of action as her health acutely declined.
Median life expectancy for white-handed gibbons is 25 to 30 years.
“Euthanasia is always a difficult decision to make, and we take into account many factors. Ultimately, we made this decision with heavy hearts based on her declining quality of life. It became clear, we could no longer overcome the issues that developed with her advanced age,” said Zoo Veterinarian Dr. Alexis Moreno.
A female ostrich passed away July 6 due to complications associated with an obstruction in her gastrointestinal tract.
