Welsh Mountain Zoo in Colwyn Bay has announced the death of Mabel, its eldest chimpanzee, who was over 60 years old. The zoo shared the news with “great sadness” on Friday, October 2.
Cause of death and legacy
The elderly animal died following a short period of age-related decline, the zoo said. During her years at the facility, Mabel made an “incredibly valuable” contribution to the EAZA ex-situ breeding programme (EEP) for the critically endangered Western chimpanzee.
In a tribute, the zoo described Mabel as “wise, subtle, resilient” and noted that, in her younger years, she was “not afraid to be a little cantankerous.” Despite her seniority, she “always retained her playful side.”
Tribute from the zoo
The tribute reads: “It is with great sadness that we've said goodbye to Mabel, our eldest chimpanzee, who was over 60 years old, following a short period of age-related decline.”
“Mabel had been part of life at Welsh Mountain Zoo for many years and made an incredibly valuable contribution to the EAZA ex-situ breeding programme (EEP) for the critically endangered Western chimpanzee. Her legacy will continue here at the Zoo, and across other EAZA member Zoos, through her son and his offspring, some of whom remain part of our chimpanzee troop.”
The animal team will remember Mabel as “a true matriarch” who “took everything in her stride.” The tribute adds: “Mabel will be greatly missed by everyone who was lucky enough to know and work with her.”
Earlier loss in the troop
Earlier this year, the zoo issued a notice to guests following the death of a chimpanzee's newborn. Mother Mellony kept hold of the deceased baby for some time, a natural behaviour commonly observed in chimpanzees.
Mabel leaves behind an important legacy for her species and many memories for the people and chimpanzees who shared her life. She was “a very special member of our Zoo family and will be deeply missed.”
