Great Plains Zoo announces Charles the black bear has passed away

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (Dakota News Now) - The Great Plains Zoo announced Monday that Charles the black bear has died.

Zoo officials shared that Charles was 24 years old.

He arrived at the zoo in 2009 with his sister, Ella.

Zookeepers immediately fell in love with him because of his sweet and gentle nature. He has been a favorite of his care team and guests alike ever since.
Charles will be remembered as a gentle giant who loved pumpkins, walnuts, mulberry browse, his toys, and long naps in the sunshine.
Zookeepers remember peafowl nesting in his exhibit during his first season at the zoo. He and his sister enjoyed watching the peachicks run around, but would never bother them.
He is also remembered as a champion bed-maker. He would gather as much straw as he could from all over his habitat – and was even known to pull Christmas trees, logs, and other items from across the exhibit – to make his bed just right.
Guests might also remember how much he enjoyed soaking in a trough in the former black bear exhibit and lounging in his hammock.
Great Plains Zoo

Charles had been “retired,” living in a habitat renovated especially for his needs because of declining health.

“Charles will live on in our hearts forever,” the zoo said.

All information and the photo of Charles are courtesy of the Great Plains Zoo.

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