Beloved Baboon At Popcorn Park Zoo Dies

LACEY, NJ — One of Popcorn Park Animal Refuge's residents has died, the zoo announced.

Legolas the baboon "passed peacefully," the zoo announced in a social media post Wednesday.

"While he had recently showed signs of aging, Legolas embraced life to the fullest until his final day," the refuge wrote on Facebook. The zoo did not say how old he was when he died.

Legolas, one of four baboons who came to the refuge in 2015, died with his brother, Gandalf, by his side.

"In the past few months, he took particular delight in new enriching activities, with a special fondness for extra treats like pumpkins and playful interactions with his new mirrored sensory toy," zoo caretakers wrote.

Gandalf is "understandably saddened" by his brother's death, the zoo said, but caretakers are "providing him with extra care and attention during this difficult time."

"Though Legolas is dearly missed, we find solace in the knowledge that he led a remarkably fulfilling and joyful life," the zoo said. "Rest in peace Legolas."