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San Francisco Zoo Mourns Loss of Beloved Chimpanzee Maggie at 55

Maggie, a longtime matriarch and one of the oldest chimpanzees in the U.S., dies after a lymphoma diagnosis, leaving the zoo's troop below recommended size.

Image
Maggie, a chimpanzee that died last week at the San Francisco Zoo after suffering from cancer, is seen eating a frozen treat in 2016 in her enclosure at the zoo.
Left to right, chimpanzees Minnie, Maggie and Cobby hang out in their enclosure at the San Francisco Zoo in 2016. All three have since died.
Maggie, a chimpanzee that died last week at the San Francisco Zoo after suffering from cancer, is seen eating lettuce in 2016 in her enclosure at the zoo.

Overview

  • Maggie, a 55-year-old chimpanzee and resident of the San Francisco Zoo for over 50 years, passed away after being diagnosed with lymphoma.
  • Known for her leadership and harmony within her troop, Maggie was a matriarchal figure who brought comfort and stability to her group.
  • Her death leaves the zoo's chimpanzee troop with only three members, below the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' recommended minimum of eight for proper socialization.
  • The zoo has not yet announced plans to address the troop's reduced size, which has raised concerns about the future of its chimpanzee population.
  • To honor Maggie's legacy, the San Francisco Zoo will contribute to the Jane Goodall Institute, emphasizing her impact on conservation efforts.