Wednesday, 02 February 2000
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Quoted in full:
Zoo Atlanta is mourning the death of Willie B., one of the most beloved and famous animals in the nation. Willie passed away peacefully as he slept early this afternoon. He was surrounded by his gorilla family and the zoo keepers who have cared for him throughout his long illness. He was reported to have been alert and comfortable this morning before falling asleep.
Willie B. had been off exhibit in the care of the zoo's veterinary staff, consulting physicians and keepers after being diagnosed with cardiomyopathy, a serious heart condition which reduces the ability of the heart to contract strongly enough.
Throughout the month of January, Willie B. had been receiving detailed evaluation and medical assistance from a team of veterinarians, veterinary technicians, pulmonologists, infectious disease specialists, a radiology technician, ultrasonographers, and cardiologists.
Willie B., at 41, was one of the oldest gorillas in captivity and the oldest captive male in the United States to be producing offspring. He fathered five gorilla babies at Zoo Atlanta over the past six years: Kudzoo, Olympia, Sukari, Kidogo, and Lulu. Kidogo, the only male offspring, will now assume the name Willie B., Jr., taking his place as the heir immediately.
The zoo staff is mourning their great loss.
This is Willie B., Zoo Atlanta's Prime Primate, Dead at 41 <http://monkeyfist.com/articles/176>