Betty, the beloved chimpanzee who spent decades as a cherished resident of Dublin Zoo, passed away last week at the remarkable age of 62. Her long life made her not only the oldest living chimpanzee under human care but also a treasured symbol of the zoo’s history and evolution.

In a heartfelt blog post, Dublin Zoo announced that Betty had been dealing with age-related ailments that severely impacted her quality of life. After much consideration, the zoo made the difficult decision to euthanize her, sparing her further suffering. While her passing is deeply saddening, her legacy lives on as a testament to resilience and care.

A Life That Defied Expectations

Betty’s 62 years far exceeded the average lifespan of chimpanzees in captivity, a milestone that underscores the exceptional care she received. At the time of her passing, she was the oldest chimpanzee in human care worldwide—a distinction that speaks to her incredible journey.

Helen Clarke Bennett, team leader at Dublin Zoo and a zookeeper since 1987, shared a moving tribute to Betty. Having known the chimpanzee for decades, Bennett recounted how Betty became a central figure in the zoo’s history.

From Victorian-Era Practices to Modern Habitats

Betty’s story began in 1964 when she arrived at Dublin Zoo from West Africa. Her early years reflected the outdated practices of the time, including participation in “Chimp Tea Parties,” a now-obsolete tradition in zoos mimicking human activities for entertainment. During this era, Dublin Zoo adhered to practices reminiscent of Victorian-era zoological displays.

Over the years, Betty witnessed a significant transformation in animal care standards. In the 1990s, the zoo replaced her original habitat—a concrete enclosure with metal bars—with a more naturalistic island featuring trees and open space. This shift marked a pivotal moment in prioritizing animal welfare over spectacle.

“Betty was a symbol of the zoo’s evolution,” Bennett shared. “She saw the transition from archaic practices to a focus on creating environments that mimic animals’ natural habitats.”

A Strong-Willed and Loyal Companion

Betty’s personality was as unforgettable as her legacy. Known for her determination and strong will, she never backed down from her goals. This tenacity earned her the respect and admiration of both her caretakers and her fellow chimps.

One of the most touching aspects of Betty’s life was her deep bond with Wendy, another chimpanzee who arrived at the zoo in 1964. For decades, Betty and Wendy were inseparable, forming a heartwarming duo that delighted visitors and staff alike.

“Wendy had a cheeky side, but Betty always kept her grounded,” Bennett recalled. One memorable moment involved Betty comforting Wendy, who was reluctant to leave the habitat during cleaning. “Betty put her arm around Wendy, encouraging her to join the troop. That image has stayed with me all these years.”

The pair celebrated their 50th birthdays together in 2012, a testament to their enduring friendship. When Wendy passed away in 2014, many feared Betty wouldn’t survive the loss. Remarkably, she persevered, living another ten years and rising to become the dominant female in the troop.

Challenges in Her Later Years

As Betty aged, she faced increasing health challenges. Chronic arthritis and reduced kidney function affected her mobility and weight, requiring continuous monitoring and care. Despite every effort to manage her condition, the toll of age became too great.

After exhausting all medical and surgical options, the zoo made the compassionate decision to euthanize Betty. This choice, though heartbreaking, was made to preserve her dignity and spare her unnecessary pain.

A Legacy That Will Be Remembered

Betty’s passing leaves a void not only in the hearts of Dublin Zoo staff but also among the countless visitors who came to know and love her over the years. For Bennett, Betty’s absence is deeply personal.

“Although I am heartbroken to say goodbye to a friend I’ve known since childhood, I find comfort in knowing we did everything possible to ensure she didn’t suffer,” Bennett wrote. “Betty’s dignity and well-being were always our top priorities.”

Visitors, too, will feel the loss. Betty was a favorite among generations of zoo-goers, many of whom grew up visiting her and sharing stories of her vibrant personality.

Saying Goodbye

Betty’s long life is a testament to the love and dedication of her caretakers. From her early days in less-than-ideal conditions to her later years in a much-improved habitat, she embodied the changes in how zoos approach animal care.

As Dublin Zoo mourns her loss, they also celebrate her remarkable life and enduring impact. Betty was more than a chimpanzee; she was a beloved companion, a symbol of resilience, and an irreplaceable part of the zoo’s history.

Rest in peace, Betty. Your legacy will forever be cherished, and you will always hold a special place in the hearts of those who knew and loved you.