The oldest gorilla living at Disney’s Animal Kingdom park has died at the age of 44.
Disney confirmed Gino the gorilla’s death in a Facebook post Wednesday morning.
“For nearly 30 years, Gino touched countless lives at Disney's Animal Kingdom with his playful spirit, gentle humor, and steady presence as a devoted father and troop leader,” Disney said.
Gino, a western lowland gorilla, had seen a lot in his life, having been a part of Animal Kingdom’s opening day 27 years ago in 1998.
Gino was born in 1980 and had 14 children. The gorilla would have turned 45 years old in December.
When Gino turned 44, Animal Kingdom staff celebrated him with a 1980s-themed birthday party, including cassette tapes and records. In a Facebook post at the time, Disney called him a “symbol of the park's enduring efforts to save critically endangered species.”
“Gino leaves behind an incredible legacy -- 14 offspring, global contributions to gorilla care and conservation, and the lasting memories of every cast member and guest he inspired,” said Disney, adding, “Gino's story will live on in the future of his species and in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.”
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