OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) - The Oklahoma City Zoo announced on Tuesday that its oldest Asian elephant, Rex, has passed away. “Rex’s life and continuing legacy will not be forgotten. He was the cornerstone of the Oklahoma City Zoo’s elephant breeding program and the proud father of our three young females,” said Rachel Boyd, OKC Zoo’s elephant curator. LOCAL NEWS: EmployOklahoma launches job matching system According to the Zoo, Rex was around 57 years old and was receiving care for advanced osteoarthritis and other age-related issues. He reached beyond the average life expectancy for Asian elephants. Officials say Rex was recognizable by his impressive tusks and freckled forehead. He also enjoyed his independence and preferred to be alone. His favorites meals included browse, watermelon, pumpkin and enrichment treats. Asian elephant Rex. Image courtesy OKC Zoo. Asian elephant Rex. Image courtesy OKC Zoo. During his time at the Zoo, he fathered three calves, Achara, Kairavi and Rama, as part of an Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) recommendation. His daughter, Achara, is expecting her first calf in July 2025, the first of a third generation for the Zoo's elephant family. Asian elephant Rex with calf. Image courtesy OKC Zoo. “Rex’s influence not only shaped the future of the Zoo’s herd but also our continued commitment to conservation and animal care,” added Boyd. “In North America, his enduring legacy lives on through his seven living calves and five living grand-calves, including three here at the Zoo. Rex was truly a remarkable presence, and I feel honored to have cared for him in the final years of his life.”