Bronx Zoo gorilla Pattycake dies at 40

Famous New York gorilla Pattycake died Sunday at the age of 40. Zoo officials said the beloved primate had been under medical care for chronic cardiac issues, reports New York Daily News.

“Pattycake was perhaps the best known gorilla at the Bronx Zoo, and an institution in New York City,” said zoo director Jim Breheny. “Millions of children in New York City grew up with Pattycake.”

Pattycake was born on Sept. 3, 1972, at the Central Park Zoo to parents Lulu and Kongo, and got her name after more than 33,000 New York Daily News readers sent in suggestions. She was transferred to the Bronx Zoo in 1982.

At the time of her death, Pattycake was the 31st oldest gorilla of the 338 on display at North American zoos. In 1994, Pattycake gained media attention when she delivered twins. She is survived by 10 total offspring currently living in zoos around the country. She inspired two books: “Gorilla Baby: The Story of Pattycake” and “Gentle Gorilla: The Story of Pattycake.”