Charles, the Toronto Zoo’s western lowland silverback gorilla, dies at 52

The Toronto Zoo says its 52-year-old western lowland silverback gorilla, Charles, died Tuesday after the sudden onset of “significant health issues.”

Charles had been a fixture at the zoo since its opening day in 1974. In a statement, the zoo described him as the “protective and wise leader” of its gorilla troop.

“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,” the zoo said.

Charles was brought to Canada as an orphan from Gabon, a country on the Atlantic coast of Africa. Over his five decades at the zoo, he grew to weigh nearly 430 pounds and sire 10 offspring. He was also a grandfather to six gorillas.

“His days were filled with moments of joy, quiet reflection, and family bonds — a testament to the complex social lives gorillas share,” the statement said.

The zoo noted that despite his large size, Charles was afraid of toads. He also “despised” tall men because he saw them as rivals. Charles didn’t like when the donkeys or alpacas would walk past the gorilla enclosure, but never seemed to have a problem with dogs, the zoo added. 

Late last week, zoo staff noticed Charles was “not his usual self,” the statement explained. He was moving more slowly and seemed to be breathing “a little quicker and harder.” Staff made a presumptive diagnosis of heart failure and, in consultation with subject matter experts, Charles was put on cardiac medication, the zoo said.

He seemed to rally over the weekend and appeared to be doing well as of Tuesday morning. But in the afternoon, his health “deteriorated suddenly and quickly,” according to the zoo.

“A full post-mortem examination is underway and has already confirmed significant changes to his heart,” the statement said.

The entire gorilla troop was able to see Charles before he passed to “say their goodbyes,” the zoo said. He died surrounded by his keepers.

In the wild, western lowland gorillas typically live between 30 and 40 years, while in captivity they can live into their 50s. 

The zoo said Charles contributed to the future of the species through his contributions to a long-term plan by accredited zoo facilities to ensure the survival of the western lowland gorilla.

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.