Welsh Mountain Zoo in Colwyn Bay has announced the death of Mabel, its eldest chimpanzee, who was over 60 years old.
In a tribute posted on its Facebook page, the zoo said Mabel had died following a short period of age-related decline.
She had been part of life at the zoo for many years and contributed to the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) ex-situ breeding programme (EEP) for the critically endangered Western chimpanzee.
The zoo said her legacy will continue there and at other EAZA member zoos through her son and his offspring, some of whom remain part of its chimpanzee troop.
A statement from the zoo said: “The animal team will remember Mabel as a true matriarch – wise, subtle, resilient and, in her younger years, not afraid to be a little cantankerous! She took everything in her stride and, despite her wisdom and seniority, always retained her playful side.”
It added: “Mabel will be greatly missed by everyone who was lucky enough to know and work with her.”
The tribute concluded: “Mabel leaves behind not only an important legacy for her species, but also 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.”
