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Abby (Detroit Zoo photo)
Abby, the 42-year-old, "famously clever" female chimpanzee at the Detroit Zoo, has died.
The zoo announced Thursday on social media that it had compassionately euthanized Abby this week following a decline in her health related to kidney failure. She had called the Detroit Zoo home for nearly four decades.
"Our veterinary and animal care teams worked closely to keep her comfortable throughout her care, and the decision was made with deep love and respect for her quality of life," the zoo said in a statement.
Abby arrived at the Detroit Zoo in 1988 and spent the next 38 years stealing hearts — and the occasional toy, the zoo said.
"She was famously clever, often 'finding' items in her habitat that didn't belong and bringing them to her care team in hopes of trading for a treat," the zoo said.
"She was a devoted mom to daughters Chiana and Jane, helping each navigate life within the troop. She was a loyal best friend to Trixi, waiting for her each morning before greeting the rest of the troop as they joined her outside. And from her favorite perch high in the root tree, she watched over the yard like the matriarch she was."
"Her wit and her unmistakable presence made this place brighter. To everyone who knew Abby — guests, volunteers and especially our primates team — thank you for loving her as much as we did. We will miss you, Abby."
