The Erie Zoo has announced the passing of Alfie, its male Visayan warty pig.

His mobility has been affected since being diagnosed with severe osteoarthritis in multiple joints in 2020.

"Unfortunately, on August 13th, after a sudden decline in his quality of life, the difficult decision was made to humanely euthanize Alfie. Alfie passed peacefully, surrounded by his devoted animal care team who had lovingly cared for him throughout his life," the zoo said in a Facebook post.

He is remembered as a "gentle soul with a curious spirit" who loved side scratches and belly rubs.

Alfie was 16 years old. The average life expectancy for Visayan warty pigs in the wild is 10 to 15 years, the zoo said.