Gorilla at Saint Louis Zoo named Little Joe dies from heart disease, zoo officials say

ST. LOUIS, Mo. (KMOV/Gray News) - An endeared lowland gorilla nicknamed “The Professor” for his high intelligence died Saturday at the Saint Louis Zoo due to a heart attack, according to zoo officials.

On Sunday, the Missouri zoo announced on social media that Little Joe, who had been in treatment for heart disease, had died.

“It is with incredible sadness we share that western lowland gorilla Little Joe, who had been in treatment for heart disease, died of a heart attack overnight May 4th,” the zoo said. “Joe’s wonderful personality and lovable grumpy face endeared him to all who knew him. He will be greatly missed.”

Joe had a distinctive red head that set him apart from other gorillas at the zoo. He enjoyed spending time with his best friend Jontu and also enjoyed watching visitors pass by, the zoo said in previous social media posts.

The zoo also described him as one of the smartest in the group of gorillas who loved to train with his keepers and was full of personality.

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