Nippy no more

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HAPPIER TIMES: Nippy the gibbon has died at Wellington Zoo at the grand old age of 60.

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Wellington Zoo's oldest resident, Nippy the gibbon, has died.

Nippy has lived at Wellington Zoo since he arrived as a one-year-old in December, 1949.

"Nippy ... was euthanased today after his health rapidly deteriorated. Vet staff who feed and monitor Nippy on a daily basis have noticed he has gone down hill over the last three days - he has been disinterested in food and has spent most of his time in his bed," Zoo operations general manager Mauritz Basson said.

"The decision to euthanase him was not made lightly, but we firmly believe it was in his best interest. His mind remained agile but it seemed that his body had just given up."

Mr Bassoon said Zoo staff were particularly sad to see Nippy go.

"He was a real character and was much loved by everyone who worked here, and he in turn loved being visited by staff and having his back scratched.

"He was a feisty ape, named for his tendency to bite."

Nippy has been off display at the Zoo for many years. It is believed that Nippy was the oldest gibbon that ever lived in captivity. Most gibbons do not live past 40. 

- © Fairfax NZ News