Charles, Toronto Zoo’s Western lowland gorilla, dies at 52

Charles the Western lowland silverback gorilla who called the Toronto Zoo home for decades died on Tuesday just days after the corporation reported he had “concerning health symptoms.”

The Toronto Zoo posted on social media on the weekend that he was unwell with possible significant heart issues.

The Zoo added that its Wildlife Health and Wildlife Care teams were closely monitoring and supporting him and that Charles would not be visible to guests.

“He has been prescribed medications and the veterinary team will adjust the treatment plan based on how he responds,” the Zoo said on Sunday.

Your Toronto Zoo is celebrating the life and legacy of a beloved icon, 52-year-old Western lowland silverback gorilla, Charles, a revered member of the Zoo family since opening day in 1974. Charles passed away late yesterday afternoon. https://t.co/ujUyiQYA3Z

— The Toronto Zoo (@TheTorontoZoo) October 30, 2024

Western lowland gorillas typically live between 30 and 40 years of age in the wild.

At 52, Charles was considered geriatric. Born in Gabon, he had been at the zoo since its opening day in 1974 and was considered by the zoo to be an “ambassador for conservation.”

In a statement, the zoo described him as the “protective and wise leader” of its group of gorillas and has since honoured Charles’ legacy with a dedicated webpage.

“Over the years, he sired over 10 offspring and became a grandfather to six, fostering a legacy that will continue through his family,” the Toronto Zoo said.

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The Western lowland silverback gorilla is one of two critically endangered subspecies of the Western gorilla.

The species continues to decline at an annual rate of nearly three per cent mostly due to poaching, disease and habitat loss and degradation.

Because of poaching and disease, the gorilla’s numbers have dropped by more than 60 per cent over the last two decades.

The Toronto Zoo is part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Western lowland Gorilla Species Survival Plan program, which aims to “establish and maintain healthy, genetically diverse populations, and overall conservation efforts of the species.”