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Jersey Zoo announces death of Biggy, an Aldabra giant tortoise estimated to be over 100 years old
Overview
Biggy, a giant tortoise and resident at Jersey Zoo thought to be over 100 years old, has been put to sleep following a recurring health issue. The tortoise underwent specialist CT scans at the Royal Veterinary College for a growth around his backside that returned after two previous surgeries. Staff made the decision to prevent further pain after determining further operations would risk permanent damage.
Key points
- Biggy the Aldabra giant tortoise was estimated to be more than 100 years old and weighed almost 200kg.
- He was taken to the Royal Veterinary College for specialist CT scans regarding a recurring health issue.
- A growth around his backside returned following two previous surgeries.
- Jersey Zoo staff made the decision to put Biggy to sleep to prevent further pain after deciding further operations risked permanent damage.
- Biggy had been a resident at Jersey Zoo for just under four years.