METRO VANCOUVER -- Charlie, the Greater Vancouver Zoo's popular 46-year-old southern white rhinoceros, was euthanized Monday after struggling with eating and drinking.

According to the zoo, several methods were used to try and help Charlie, but that the animal care staff decided that he had to be euthanized.

A full necropsy was performed on Charlie Tuesday by Dr. Chelsea Hilmsworth from the BC Animal Health Centre.

"Charlie was in excellent condition," she said. "Unfortunately, he had outlived the lifespan of his teeth. This prevented him for being able to chew his food properly, which eventually resulted in a blockage in the esophagus."

Charlie came to the Greater Vancouver Zoo from the Okanagan Game Farm in 1998 and was described by many as a "gentle soul."

The average life span of a white rhinoceros in captivity is 25-45 years.

Anyone wishing to express their thoughts and/or photos of Charlie is asked to send them to the zoo's facebook page. Cards will also be posted at his barn.

bmorton@vancouversun.com