1972 - 2024

We are celebrating the life of Charles, the Western lowland silverback gorilla who has been a pillar of the zoo community since its opening in 1974. Charles was not just a Zoo resident; he was an ambassador for conservation, a father, a grandfather, a symbol of resilience and leadership and a cherished favourite among Zoo staff, volunteers, members and guests.

Read a Memory of Charles Below

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Arriving from Gabon, Africa, as a toddler, Charles grew into a 195-kilogram leader, embodying the very essence of a silverback. Over the years, he sired over ten offspring and became a grandfather to six, fostering a legacy that will continue through his family. His contributions to the Western lowland gorilla Species Survival Plan (SSP) were invaluable, ensuring the genetic diversity and health of captive gorilla populations across North America.

Charles’s influence extended beyond his troop. He played a crucial role in the zoo's conservation efforts, helping raise awareness about the threats facing gorillas in the wild. He inspired public engagement in campaigns that supported gorilla conservation, such as the PhoneApes cell phone recycling initiative, connecting thousands of visitors to conservation issues, particularly the impact of coltan mining on gorilla habitats. This legacy of education and outreach will remain a lasting part of his contribution to the zoo’s mission.

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In his later years, Charles received exceptional care tailored to his aging needs. Modifications to his habitat and diet, including herbal-infused food, soft bedding, and specialized medical procedures, ensured his comfort. His ability to participate in his own medical care through positive reinforcement training exemplified the strong bond he shared with his wildlife care team. Charles's presence in the troop, maintaining order and nurturing relationships, was a testament to his character and strength.

Charles’s 50th birthday in 2022 was a celebration not just of his longevity but also of the love and dedication that went into his care. This milestone stood as a beacon of hope, as wild gorillas rarely live beyond 40 years due to threats like poaching, habitat loss, and disease. To honour this achievement, the Toronto Zoo Wildlife Conservancy committed $250,000 over ten years to support in-situ conservation efforts in his name.

To honour Charles's legacy, you can make a donation in his memory. Your support will have an impact both here at your Toronto Zoo and in conservation efforts around the world.

Make a gift in memory of Charles Here

Charles will be profoundly missed, not only by his gorilla family, but also by the entire zoo community and visitors who cherished their interactions with him. His legacy will live on through his descendants, the ongoing conservation initiatives he inspired, and the countless hearts he touched along the way. 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.

Photo of Charles in his habitat at the Zoo in the 1980's. Standing prowd middle of the frame with a news headline above him saying 'King Charles rules the zoo'
photo of Charles from the 1980's as he stares directly into the camera with a whimsical smile

Rest in peace, Charles. Your journey from Gabon, Africa to Toronto changed the lives of many, and your spirit will continue to inspire conservation efforts for years to come.

Your Favourite Memory or Image of Charles

*We are no longer accepting new submissions, but we invite you to read the cherished memories shared by others. Charles touched so many lives, and these reflections continue to honour his remarkable presence. Thank you to everyone who contributed a story or image in his memory.

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