According to a post on the Maine Wildlife Park Facebook page, the park is mourning the loss of one of its most recognizable residents. Byron, a beloved moose who spent 13 years at the park, died over the weekend at the age of 13.

The park announced Byron’s death Monday, saying he died from natural causes associated with his advanced age.  The Facebook post included a video tribute celebrating his life and the millions of visitors who came to know him.

Byron arrived at the Maine Wildlife Park in 2013 after he was found orphaned as a calf by residents in the town of Byron.  A local game warden rescued him and eventually brought him to the park, where he would spend the rest of his life.

According to the park, Byron welcomed nearly 2 million visitors during his time in Gray. Staff members said he became an important ambassador for moose and helped educate visitors about Maine’s native wildlife while giving generations of guests the opportunity to see the animal up close.

The park also said Byron developed a special connection with the employees who cared for him every day. Staff described his presence as having a lasting impact on both the park community and those who worked with him.

An article on the KJ website explains that Byron’s death comes less than two weeks after another loss at the park.  On July 29, a black bear named Luvey died after suddenly collapsing.

For the latest Maine wildlife stories, keep an eye on the station’s website and social media.

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