The Toronto Zoo posted on social media on Sunday that Charles the western lowland gorilla has “concerning health symptoms” that suggest he may have significant heart issues.
The Zoo said that it is “doing everything to keep Charles comfortable” and it will keep the public updated as to his health status.
READ MORE: Toronto Zoo moose euthanized due to health issues
The western lowland 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 declined 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.”
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