Photo courtesy San Francisco Zoo.

Goober, a Baird’s tapir at the San Francisco Zoo that was a favorite of many visitors, has died.

Keepers found the 18-year-old Goober dead Sunday morning in his barn, according to an announcement from the zoo.

Goober was diagnosed with oral cancer two years ago, and in spite of treatment including surgery, the cancer spread. The zoo is planning a report based on a necropsy.

“He will always be remembered for his love of corn, and a willingness to do anything for a scratch from his keeper,” Jim Nappi, curator of hoofstock and marsupials, said in a statement from the zoo. “I am so thankful to my staff for their countless efforts and dedication to Goober’s well-being. He will definitely be missed by us and visitors alike.”

Tapirs are semi-aquatic animals about the size of a large pig or small donkey. They are found from Mexico south to Columbia and Ecuador.