Providence Journal photo / Bob Thayer
Gloria, pictured at the zoo, when she first fell ill in February.
PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- Gloria, a popular white-cheeked gibbon who lived at the Roger Williams Park Zoo for 23 years and gave birth to five more of the endangered species, has died.
Tim French, the zoo's deputy director of animal programs, said Gloria's health had deteriorated in recent weeks. Tests "did not provide a definitive diagnosis of her condition," he said, but "the symptoms were very similar to those of Parkinson's disease."
Because of a severe decline in her quality of life, zoo officials said in a news release, "it was decided that euthanasia was the kindest choice for her. The procedure was completed today at the Zoo's veterinary hospital."
Gloria was 29 years old. Her five offspring live at other zoos.