A beloved bull moose died this week at the Maine Wildlife Park in Gray.
Byron, who has spent 13 years as a moose ambassador at the park, died Tuesday from natural causes related to his age, according to the Maine Wildlife Park.
Byron was found orphaned in 2013 in the eponymous Oxford County town north of Rumford. A game warden brought him to the wildlife park, where he grew into “a magnificent animal and unforgettable symbol of Maine’s wilderness,” the park said in a Tuesday tribute.
During his time at the park, Byron welcomed nearly 2 million visitors, inspiring them with an appreciation for the Maine wilderness and the animals who call it home.
On social media, many fondly remembered the “gentle giant” who was a highlight during many visits to the park.
“Byron’s presence made an indelible mark on our community and the staff who cared for him daily. Rest easy, big guy. You have left a legacy that will last a lifetime,” the park wrote in its tribute.