China's zoo star capuchin monkey passes away due to sudden illness

(ECSN) -- East China's Hefei Wildlife Park announced on Wednesday that its celebrity black-capped capuchin monkey "Dazhuang" died in the afternoon due to a sudden illness.

On Wednesday morning, Dazhuang suddenly fell ill. The preliminary diagnosis, based on consultations with veterinary experts from across China, indicates the cause of death as cardiopulmonary failure.

The park expressed deep sorrow over the loss and thanked the public for their love and attention to Dazhuang.

Dazhuang gained nationwide popularity during the May Day holiday after photos of his unusually square face and adorably awkward expressions went viral on social media. Nicknamed the "square-faced monkey," he quickly became an online celebrity, with visitors traveling long distances to see him in person.

(By Gong Weiwei)