In Loving Memory of Chimpanzee Charlie

We are deeply saddened to share the passing of Charlie, our cherished chimpanzee. At age 53, Charlie received attentive and thorough care from his primate and veterinary teams. He saw his consulting complementary therapy veterinarian and her staff routinely for more than 10 years for cold laser and massage therapy. Despite dedicated care and medical management, his arthritis and other age-related ailments eventually caused discomfort that could no longer be eased. Surrounded by his care team, Charlie was humanely euthanized to prevent further suffering.

Charlie found his forever home at the Houston Zoo on June 14, 2010. A meaningful date that coincided with the 50th anniversary of Jane Goodall’s first steps into Gombe Stream Reserve, a milestone that forever changed the world’s understanding of chimpanzee behavior. Charlie quickly became an integral member of the Zoo’s chimpanzee troop, serving as the trusted “right hand” to the Alpha male. He was known for his playful spirit especially during what keepers fondly called “old-man play,” where the chases of youth turned into leisurely strolls shared among lifelong companions.

In his later years, Charlie preferred quiet moments away from the younger chimps’ antics. He had a gentle, thoughtful presence and a few favorite indulgences: sipping juice from a Dixie cup as if at a tea party, enjoying iceberg lettuce and hard-boiled eggs, and painting alongside his keepers (though he was sometimes more interested in tasting the paint than creating a masterpiece).

Charlie also received massage and cold laser therapy in his senior years, greeting his therapist warmly and willingly presenting his back, shoulders, hands, and feet for treatment.

Charlie’s long life and gentle nature left an enduring impact on all who knew him, keepers, volunteers, and guests alike.