Charles, an “iconic” 52-year-old Western lowland gorilla at the Toronto Zoo, has died.
Charles passed away due to natural causes late Tuesday afternoon after experiencing “significant health issues,” the zoo said in a press release.
“He will be dearly missed, and his memory will continue to inspire those who knew him to continue the fight against the extinction of this incredible, critically endangered species.”
“In his final moments, he was surrounded by his keepers who loved him dearly,” the zoo said.
The zoo added a post-mortem exam has confirmed Charles had heart problems.
Charles' Life at the Toronto Zoo
Considered one of the zoo’s legacy residents, Charles had been there since the opening day in 1974.
He was under the age of two when he first arrived as an orphan from Gabon in West Africa and predates the zoo’s existence. He was one of the oldest gorillas in captivity in North America.
“His long life at the Zoo allowed us the unique opportunity to witness his extraordinary journey from a playful juvenile to a wise and protective leader,” the zoo said.
“His days were filled with moments of joy, quiet reflection and family bonds — a testament to the complex social lives gorillas share.”
Charles' Healthcare: A testament to dedicated care
Katie Gray, the zoo’s strategic communications manager, told the Star over email that Charles underwent cardiac ultrasounds, voluntary injections, dental and nail care, blood pressure and temperature checks.
Charles experienced discomfort during cardiac ultrasounds when he placed his chest against the mesh. To ease his pain, the zoo made a custom ultrasound port to accommodate his stiffened hips and larger belly.
“Like many of our animals, Charles is also trained to participate in his own medical procedures through positive reinforcement to ensure we are able to regularly and easily provide excellent care,” Gray said.
Charles’s morning diet consisted of vitamins and supplements, including arthritis analgesics, mixed with ground flaxseed porridge. He also had a cup of herbal tea on the side, according to Gray. She added that his habitat had been modified for his golden years.
“Harder root vegetables are steamed to make them soft and his leaf-eater chow is dipped in herbal tea to make them easier to chew,” Gray said.
Charles: An Icon Celebrated
When the zoo celebrated its 50th anniversary this summer, a statue was unveiled in honour of Charles, its “iconic Toronto Zoo Resident,” according to a press release.
Western lowland gorillas usually live up to 40 years in the wild and can live into their 50s in captivity, according to the Toronto Zoo.
Western lowland gorillas are critically endangered, declining at an annual rate of 2.7 per cent. The zoo has six more Western lowland gorillas in their care, Gray said.
A Legacy of Hope
“His legacy will live on through his descendants, the ongoing conservation initiatives he inspired, and the countless hearts he touched along the way,” the zoo’s memorial said.
“As we bid farewell to Charles, we take comfort in knowing that his life made a meaningful impact on the world and left a legacy of hope for future generations.”
A Legacy of Love
The Zoo has set up a fund in Charles' memory, with proceeds going to conservation projects. You can also visit this page to leave a memory or image of Charles.
