Gino, a 44-year-old western lowland gorilla and one of the very first residents of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, has died.
“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 shared in a statement on social media.
Gino arrived at the park when it opened in 1998 and quickly became a fixture along the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail. Weighing more than 400 pounds, he was known for his commanding presence, often standing tall and beating his chest in dramatic displays.
As the troop’s elder and father of 14 offspring, some of whom still live at the park, Gino played a vital role in both his family and in conservation efforts. He participated in a Disney-developed care program that allowed animals to assist with their own medical treatment, helping advance global practices in gorilla care without the need for sedation.
Though he would have celebrated his 45th birthday this December, Gino’s impact extends far beyond his years.
“Gino’s story will live on in the future of his species and in the hearts of all who knew and loved him,” Disney’s statement continued. “Thank you, Gino. You will always be part of our family.”
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