C’sar, 51-year-old elephant and icon of NC Zoo, has died

C’sar, the oldest African bull elephant in the United States, died Dec. 19 at the North Carolina Zoo.

2025-12-22

C'sar, who was 51 years old, came to the zoo in 1978, at just 4 years old. He was the zoo's first elephant and became an NC Zoo icon, known to generations of visitors. The cause of death was natural, age-related conditions, the zoo said.

“C’sar was a living piece of history and a beloved member of our Zoo community,” says Diane Villa, interim director of the North Carolina Zoo. “His gentle presence and remarkable story introduced millions of guests to the wonder of wildlife ... His longevity is a testament to the love and quality of care he received throughout his life.”

C’sar made history in 2011, becoming the first elephant in the world to undergo successful cataract surgery. He later became the first to wear custom-fitted contact lenses.

“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." 

 Donations to The C'sar Legacy Fund can be made through the NC Zoo Society at https://www.nczoo.com/forms/store/csar-legacy/.