Story at a glance
- Cobby, a 63-year-old chimpanzee, died at his home at the San Francisco Zoo & Gardens on Saturday.
- He was human-reared to perform before being brought to the San Francisco Zoo in the 1960s.
- Wild chimpanzees live to an average age of 33, whereas those receiving human care live to between 50 and 60.
The oldest male chimpanzee living in a North American zoo died Saturday.
Cobby, who was 63 years old, died at his home at the San Francisco Zoo & Gardens.
We are heartbroken to share the sad news of the passing of our beloved Cobby, 63-year-old male chimpanzee. Cobby, a gentle soul, brought a calming presence to our troop of seven and was a protective companion to Minnie and Maggie, who he lived with for 42 years. pic.twitter.com/WLFoJk9e1u
— San Francisco Zoo (@sfzoo) June 6, 2021
“Our hearts are broken with this devastating loss,” Tanya M. Peterson, CEO and executive director of the San Francisco Zoological Society, said in a press release.
Cobby was human-reared to perform before being brought to the San Francisco Zoo in the 1960s. He lived and grew alongside his female chimpanzee companions, Minnie and Maggie, for more than 42 years.
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According to the San Francisco Zoo, chimpanzees are among the most at-risk primates in Africa. The wild population, which is estimated between 100,000 and 200,000, live to an average age of 33, whereas those receiving human care live to between 50 and 60.
“Cobby was both a charismatic and compassionate leader of our chimpanzee troop. For so many years, he was a protective companion, demonstrating patience and resilency,” Peterson said. “He also was a favorite of visitors and staff, recognizing so many of us. He was one of the first animals whom I personally knew as Director. His death will be felt deeply by our staff, many of whom cared for him for decades.”
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