‘She will be deeply missed’: Susie, oldest female chimpanzee in human care, dies in Kansas zoo

MANHATTAN (KSNT) – The Sunset Zoo in Manhattan reports that one of its more well-known residents has died.

The Sunset Zoo issued a press release on Oct. 29 reporting that Susie the western chimpanzee died at the age of 71. Zoo staff were monitoring her condition closely as she dealt with age-related health issues such as cataracts, arthritis and muscle loss.

Susie’s caretakers recently noticed a sharp decline in her behavior, mobility and comfort level. Both the veterinary and animal care teams could not provide any additional care for Susie than was already being administered to her. The decision was then made to euthanize Susie.

“Susie was a truly special animal here at Sunset Zoo,” said Sunset Zoo Director, Scott Shoemaker. “She touched the hearts of every member of our team. Whether she was giving ‘kisses’ to those she knew or enjoying one of her favorite treats—popcorn—she always brought joy to our days. She will be deeply missed.”

Susie held the distinction of being recognized as the oldest female chimpanzee in human care. She lived more than 30 years beyond the average chimpanzee lifespan in the wild, which is about 40 years.

The Sunset Zoo said Susie was born in 1954 and arrived in Manhattan in 1974. She gave birth to seven chimpanzees and is survived by two daughters who live in two other zoos in the U.S.

“Like so many in Manhattan, I grew up visiting Susie,” said Parks and Recreation Director, Aaron Stewart. “She was part of my childhood and has been part of this community’s story for generations. Her long life is something we should truly celebrate—a reflection of the remarkable care she received and the deep compassion of those who watched over her every day. But her passing is also deeply felt. For countless families, Susie was their first connection to wildlife, their first visit to Sunset Zoo, and their first lesson in empathy for animals. Her presence brought joy, wonder, and a sense of shared pride that will live on in the memories of our community and everyone who had the privilege to know her.”

People who wish to mourn Susie may do so by sharing memories at the zoo. Guests can sign cards located in the Ballard Gallery primate viewing area.

“Susie’s legacy will extend far beyond her years here at Sunset Zoo,” said Sunset Zoo Curator of Education, Erica Buckwalter. “Not only did she play a vital role in helping secure a future for chimpanzees in managed care, but she also inspired generations of guests to care for and protect wildlife and wild places. We can honor her legacy by being good stewards of the natural world she helped us appreciate.”

Western chimpanzees are listed as an endangered species due to illegal wildlife trading, poaching and habitat destruction, according to the Sunset Zoo. Only around 150,000 to 250,000 western chimpanzees are estimated to remain in Africa.

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