The Toronto Zoo says it is honoring the life of Charles, a 52-year-old silverback gorilla who died Tuesday.

Charles died of natural causes after experiencing significant health issues recently.

“Charles has been a revered member of the Toronto Zoo family since its opening in 1974 and has warmed the hearts of our community for 50 years,” the zoo wrote in a press release.

“He will be greatly missed and his memory will continue to inspire those who knew him to continue the fight against the extinction of this incredible and critically endangered species.” »

The 52-year-old gorilla was diagnosed with heart failure and put on treatment last week after staff noticed Charles was acting abnormally.

“Over the weekend, Charles recovered, his appetite returned, and his interaction with his caregivers improved,” the zoo continued. “(Tuesday) morning Charles was bright and sitting up eating, but his condition deteriorated suddenly and rapidly in the afternoon.”

The zoo said Charles had a “real presence” that left a lasting impact on everyone around him as he grew from a “playful youngster to a protective and wise leader.”

“I am very proud of the work our team did to make him feel comfortable during his final days with us,” said Dolf DeJong, CEO of the Toronto Zoo. “Charles was more than an icon; he was a member of our zoological family and a powerful ambassador for his species. Our flags will fly at half-mast to commemorate his life.

Silverback gorillas are known for their intelligence and social behavior. They often display bonds with their family members. Despite their imposing size (up to 485 pounds), they are generally considered gentle and shy creatures.

Conservation efforts are underway to protect silverback gorillas and their habitats, which are threatened by poaching and habitat destruction.