A “much-loved” giant tortoise at Jersey Zoo will be put to sleep after a decline in health despite extensive specialist care.
Biggy, the 150kg Aldabra giant tortoise, who is thought to be more than 100 years old, travelled by ferry and van to the Royal Veterinary College in Hertfordshire for a CT scan in August.
However, growths have continued to form around his cloaca – an opening at the rear of his shell – and they have begun to be infected and ulcerated.
Violaine Colon, senior veterinary officer at Jersey Zoo, said the decision was “incredibly difficult”, but the CT scan provided a “clearer picture” which enabled vets to make an informed decision on his care.
She added: “His condition has deteriorated since then, and the growths have come back very quickly.
“Having already undergone two rounds of surgery, we don’t believe further surgery would be successful in curing his tumors.
“While we never want to have to make this decision, we know that putting him to sleep is now the kindest thing we can do.”
The decision to euthanise Biggy was made on welfare grounds, as further surgery doesn’t guarantee success and may make him more uncomfortable.
Two weeks ago, Anette, one of Jersey Zoo’s beloved orangutans, was also euthanised following a long period of declining health.
At the time, Dr Nic Masters, head of veterinary services at Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, said: “Reaching a decision to euthanise any animal is always difficult, especially when you are looking at a combination of age-related ailments where the effects aren’t always easy to measure objectively.”
Elsewhere at the Zoo, the Gelada grassland monkeys are heading to Bratislava in Slovakia, joining six males who left Jersey in July to form Slovakia’s first-ever group of the animals.
Biggy’s tortoise compatriot, Mike, also made the sea and van voyage to Hertfordshire for a CT scan. It found he had osteoarthritis and with physiotherapy his demeanour has begun to improve.
Ms Colon added: “Biggy is a much-loved member of the Jersey Zoo family and will be hugely missed by all of us who have cared for him.”
