1990 - 2022
The primate team are celebrating the life of a special Gibbon
On Monday 3rd October 2022 we sadly lost our 32 year old Javan gibbon, Iwok. Born in November 1990, he was the first parent-reared Javan gibbon here at Howletts Wild Animal Park and was very special.
Iwok became diabetic, and due to his placid nature and patience we were able to inject him daily with his insulin. This was his own choice - he would present his thigh for keepers to administer his injection and was rewarded with a tasty blueberry afterwards!
Iwok was unique. Not only due to his surfer hairstyle, but in the way he responded to his keepers, ensuring he became a favourite of all who worked with him.
A huge well done to all the keepers and the vet department who gave Iwok so much time and care. He will be sadly missed, though his legacy continues with the many infants he sired with his partner, Reggat.
By Georgie Barnes
Head of primates at Howletts wild animal park
