Schorsch

A half‑century on the planet is a long time for any great ape, and Schorsch reached that milestone in June 2022. Born on 3 March 1972 in the Tiergarten der Stadt Nürnberg, he entered the world under the watchful eyes of his parents, Fritz and Liane. The early years were spent roaming the same German park that first welcomed him.

In late 1988 he briefly left Nürnberg for Zoo Duisburg, a move that lasted just over a month before he returned to his home enclosure. Those months of transition gave keepers a chance to observe his adaptability, and when he settled back he continued to mature into a powerful silverback.

The next big change came in October 1994, when Schorsch was transferred to Loro Parque on the island of Tenerife. There he became a familiar face for visitors and a steady presence for the troop, contributing to the daily rhythm of the group for nearly three decades.

His life concluded on 22 June 2022 at Loro Parque. Though the cause of death remains unknown, his 50‑year lifespan reflects a remarkable period of care and stability, especially for a species listed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN.