The Zoo’s 27 year old Sulawesi macaque, Spock, was humanely euthanized this morning

Photo Credit: Connor Mallon, Smithsonian’s National Zoo

From the National Zoo:

“We are very sad to announce that our elderly Sulawesi macaque, Spock, was humanely euthanized this morning. He was 27 years old. Zoo visitors may remember Spock as the macaque who interacted with them by lip-smacking, a typical macaque greeting. He often spent time basking in the sun in his outdoor exhibit.

Like many elderly animals, Spock had arthritis in his knee and ankle joints. In 2003 and 2004, Zoo veterinarians performed orthopedic surgery and stabilized the affected areas with pins and screws, thereby increasing his mobility. Zoo staff also altered Spock’s outdoor and indoor enclosure to maximize his comfort and mobility. Spock was recently diagnosed with diabetes mellitus. Veterinarians worked with Zoo nutritionists to manage his diabetes with medicine and diet modifications. Keepers and veterinarians closely monitored Spock for any signs of discomfort or worsening of his diabetic condition. In the past few months, they observed a significant decrease in his mobility, appetite and weight.”