Disney World Mourns Death of Gino, 44, Gorilla at Animal Kingdom

Disney World is mourning the death of Gino, a 44-year-old western lowland gorilla who has lived at Disney's Animal Kingdom since the park opened in 1998. In a post on Instagram, Dr. Mark Penning, vice president of Disney's Animals, Science and Environment division, wrote: "We are heartbroken to share the passing of Gino, our beloved 44-year-old western lowland gorilla. 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."\n\nGino was a 400-pound standout on the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail, and his chest-beating was a familiar sight as guests passed by. Dr. Scott Terrell, director of Animal and Science Operations at The Walt Disney Co., told The Orlando Sentinel in 2021, "Everybody takes notice — his family, our guests, our cast and it’s really quite spectacular. It’s natural gorilla behavior. He’s just very good at it." Penning noted Wednesday that "Gino leaves behind an incredible legacy," having fathered 14 offspring to contribute to the conservation of his species. Gino was the oldest animal at the park. Despite his age, he willingly participated in a program where gorillas help with their own medical care — posing in cooperation for examinations rather than requiring sedation. These checkups included sonograms and blood pressure exams. Gino had lived at the Animal Kingdom theme park for 27 years since opening day in 1998.\n\n\n\nWestern lowland gorillas are critically endangered, with populations declining by more than 60% over the past two to three decades, according to the Smithsonian. The International Union for Conservation of Nature changed its official status from endangered to critically endangered in 2007, reflecting threats from poaching, disease and habitat loss. The Ebola virus and other infectious diseases have compounded the challenges facing this nonaggressive species, underscoring the role institutions like Disney play in care and conservation efforts.\n\n"Though he would have turned 45 this December, Gino’s story will live on in the future of his species and in the hearts of all who knew and loved him," Penning wrote. "Thank you, Gino. You will always be part of our family." Disney described the park's mission as ongoing in conservation and education as it honors Gino's legacy.\n\n