Charlie (Houston Zoo)
HOUSTON – The Houston Zoo says its beloved 53-year-old chimpanzee, Charlie, has died.
The zoo said Charlie had been receiving cold laser and massage therapy for over 10 years by primate and veterinary teams. However, despite dedicated care and medical management, his arthritis and other age-related ailments eventually caused Charlie discomfort that could not be eased.
Surrounded by his care team, Charlie was humanely euthanized to prevent further suffering.
Charlie came to the Houston Zoo on June 14, 2010. The date was a meaningful one as it coincided with the 50th anniversary of when Jane Goodall took the first steps into Gombe Stream Reserve, a milestone that forever changed the world’s understanding of chimpanzee behavior.
The zoo says Charlie quickly became an integral part of the zoo’s chimpanzee troop, becoming the trusted “right hand” to the alpha male. He was known for his playful spirit especially during what his keepers called “old-man play” where the chases of youth turned into leisurely strolls shared among lifelong companions.
You can read more about Charlie here.
Copyright 2025 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.
About the AuthorChristian Terry
Christian Terry covered digital news in Tyler and Wichita Falls before returning to the Houston area where he grew up. He is passionate about weather and the outdoors and often spends his days off on the water fishing.
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