C'sar was also the oldest African bull elephant in the United States. The NC Zoo said he died peacefully on Friday. He was 51 years old.
The venerable elephant was orphaned in Kenya and arrived at the NC Zoo on July 25, 1978, when he was about 4 years old. He wasn't the first animal at the zoo, but he was its first elephant.
"C'sar was a living piece of history and a beloved member of our Zoo community," said Diane Villa, interim director of the North Carolina Zoo. "His gentle presence and remarkable story introduced millions of guests to the wonder of wildlife and the importance of conservation. We are grateful to every staff member, past and present, who devoted their time, expertise, and hearts to caring for him. His longevity is a testament to the love and quality of care he received throughout his life."
As he aged, C'sar faced several health challenges, including arthritis and declining vision. In 2011, he made history as the first elephant to undergo successful cataract surgery and later became the first to receive custom-fitted contact lenses.
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"Meeting C'sar up close and getting the chance to feed him was a highlight in my first year in this role," said N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Secretary Pamela B. Cashwell. "Not only did C'sar bring joy to visitors for decades, but he embodied everything that is wonderful about the North Carolina Zoo: conservation, education, and phenomenal animal care. We will miss him, and our thoughts are with his keepers, Zoo employees, and all those who loved him."
C'sar's popularity and longevity helped bolster conservation efforts, including raising awareness of poaching, habitat loss, and human-elephant conflict.
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"C'sar helped people understand why conservation matters," said Rich Bergl, deputy director and chief mission officer of the Zoo. "Because of him, guests have felt a personal connection to the challenges faced by wild elephants and have seen how we all have a role to play in ensuring the survival of elephants and other wild species. He was truly an inspirational animal and will be missed."
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The Zoo said it was planning opportunities for the public to honor C'sar's memory. Details are being worked out, but people are encouraged to join the Zoo in celebrating his life and help support efforts to protect and care for elephants worldwide.
Donations to The C'sar Legacy Fund can be made through the NC Zoo Society here.