Decision to euthanise giant tortoise “incredibly difficult”

ONE of Jersey Zoo’s Aldabra giant tortoises has died.

Biggy, who was thought to have been at least 100 years old, was recently transported to the UK in July to have a CT scan to assess tumours developing near his cloaca at the base of his tail. 

After Biggy showed no signs of improving, Jersey Zoo made the decision to euthanise Biggy on welfare grounds. 

Senior veterinary officer at Jersey Zoo, Violaine Colon, said: “This is an incredibly difficult decision for everyone who has cared for Biggy. The specialist CT scans at the Royal Veterinary College gave us a much clearer picture of his condition and helped us make decisions about his ongoing care. 

“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 tumours. 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. 

Mike, another giant tortoise, joined Biggy on his journey and also had a CT scan to investigate a lame leg that was difficult to diagnose. 

The scan revealed he had osteoarthritis, and he is now having regular physio. While he is still lame, Mike’s mood and demeanour have improved. 

The death follows the euthanisation of Anette the orangutan two weeks ago who was also suffering from long-term health complications. 

At the time, Dr Nic Masters, head of veterinary sciences at Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, said the “decision to euthanise any animal is always difficult,” especially because age-related ailments are difficult to “measure objectively.” 

As well as Mike, Biggy was also joined at the Zoo by Twiggy and Helen. The four Aldabras arrived in Jersey together from Bristol Zoo in 2023 when the Tortoise Tunnel opened. 

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.”