Sunset Zoo<\/a>, Susie, the Western Chimpanzee, had been under close veterinary and caretaker observation to monitor for expected age-related health challenges such as development of cataracts, arthritis and muscle loss for many years. Through daily quality of life assessments which provide an objective understanding of animal wellbeing, Staff noticed a significant decline in Susie\u2019s behavior, mobility, and comfort level. <\/p>\nSunset Zoo\u2019s veterinary and animal care teams recognized that they could not provide any more medical and palliative care than was already administered. After careful evaluation and thoughtful discussion with chimpanzee experts, care staff and Zoo management, the team made the compassionate yet difficult choice to humanely euthanize Susie. <\/p>\n
According to Sunset Zoo, at 71, Susie had the proud distinction of being the oldest female chimpanzee in human care. Susie lived more than three decades beyond the average chimpanzee lifespan in the wild, which is typically around 40 years. Her life is a testament to the dedication of Sunset Zoo\u2019s animal care team and partners at Kansas State University\u2019s College of Veterinary Medicine.<\/p>\n
\u201cSusie was a truly special animal here at Sunset Zoo,\u201d reflected Sunset Zoo Director, Scott Shoemaker. \u201cShe touched the hearts of every member of our team. Whether she was giving \u2018kisses\u2019 to those she knew or enjoying one of her favorite treats\u2014popcorn\u2014she always brought joy to our days. She will be deeply missed.\u201d<\/p>\n
Officials said Susie was born in 1954 and arrived at Sunset Zoo in 1974. Like other members of the community, she witnessed many changes to the Zoo and the chimpanzee habitat specifically. When Susie first arrived at Sunset Zoo, she lived in a habitat near where the otters are currently located. She moved to the then-primate building which has since been removed from public view and houses the keeper offices. In 1997, the Chimpanzees of Tanganyika habitat opened, which became her permanent home.<\/p>\n
\u201cLike so many in Manhattan, I grew up visiting Susie,\u201d remembered Parks and Recreation Director, Aaron Stewart. \u201cShe was part of my childhood and has been part of this community\u2019s story for generations. Her long life is something we should truly celebrate\u2014a reflection of the remarkable care she received and the deep compassion of those who watched over her every day. But her passing is also deeply felt. For countless families, Susie was their first connection to wildlife, their first visit to Sunset Zoo, and their first lesson in empathy for animals. Her presence brought joy, wonder, and a sense of shared pride that will live on in the memories of our community and everyone who had the privilege to know her.\u201d<\/p>\n
Officials noted Susie is survived by her troop members Julian (46), Hazina (38), Hususa (33), and Koto (12). Over her lifetime, Susie gave birth to seven offspring and held the remarkable distinction of being the oldest chimpanzee in human care to give birth. She is survived by two of her daughters: Sesa, born in 1988 and now residing at Montgomery Zoo, and Siri, born in 2010\u2014when Susie was 56 years old\u2014who lives at Albuquerque BioPark Zoo. <\/p>\n
\u201cSusie\u2019s legacy will extend far beyond her years here at Sunset Zoo,\u201d remarked Sunset Zoo Curator of Education, Erica Buckwalter. \u201cNot only did she play a vital role in helping secure a future for chimpanzees in managed care, but she also inspired generations of guests to care for and protect wildlife and wild places. We can honor her legacy by being good stewards of the natural world she helped us appreciate.\u201d<\/p>\n
Sunset Zoo officials said they appreciate the compassion and concern of guests and asks for their understanding as the team mourns the loss of this beloved member of the Zoo family. Guests wishing to share their memories of Susie may sign the cards located in the Ballard Gallery primate viewing area.<\/p>\n
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