Cobby, America’s oldest male chimpanzee dies at 63 – Rest in peace

The San Francisco Zoo shared the heartbreaking news of the passing of America’s oldest chimpanzee, Cobby. “Our hearts are broken with this devastating loss,” the press release by the CEO and Executive Director of San Francisco Zoological Society, Tanya M. Peterson, read.

The life of this incredible animal was rich and he was surrounded by people and caretakers who loved him unconditionally. Cobby, who was 63 at the time of his death, which is past the life expectancy of male chimpanzees, was a true legend of the zoo.

He was described as a gentle soul and as a leader who helped many new animals of his kind get used to the life at the zoo. “Cobby [was] the respected elder who was able to bring together this newly formed group,” the zoo wrote in their press release.

The beautiful animal was a performing chimp raised by humans before he became part of the zoo during the 1960’s.

“Cobby was both a charismatic and compassionate leader of our chimpanzee troop. For so many years, he was a protective companion, demonstrating patience and resilency. He also was a favorite of visitors and staff, recognizing so many of us.”

His passing left a huge void in the hearts of the caretakers, the visitors, and his two best friends, the female chimps Minnie and Maggie.

“He was one of the first animals whom I personally knew as Director,” Tanya M. Peterson said. “His death will be felt deeply by our staff, many of whom cared for him for decades.”

“Cobby was part of San Francisco,” Peterson added. “He touched so many lives, and people have so many memories of him. He is irreplaceable, and our hearts are broken. We will all miss seeing his handsome grey beard watching over us from the top platform of the yard.”

The exact cause of death remains unknown, but Cobby had health issues and probably died of old age. He was truly one of a kind and will be dearly missed by many. Rest in peace, Cobby!

Monica Pop
Monica Pop
Monica Pop is a senior writer for Bored Daddy magazine covering the latest trending and popular articles across the United States and around the world.

More from author

Related posts

Latest posts

South Carolina judge Diane Goodstein’s home catches fire — what we know so far

A fire broke out on October 4, 2025, at the Edisto Island home of South Carolina Circuit Court Judge Diane Goodstein, destroying the property...

The Case That Stirred Wakefield: Loss, Accountability, and Lessons Learned

Beneath the Quiet Streets of Wakefield: The Tragedy Behind Liam Deane’s Story In a quiet corner of Wakefield, whispers stirred—questions about Liam Deane that no...

Air Disaster Strikes as Plane with Over 240 Onboard Goes Down

Global Shock as Passenger Jet with Over 244 Aboard Crashes Under Mysterious Circumstances. The world is reeling from breaking reports of a large-scale aviation...

Greta Thunberg’s brutal response to Donald Trump amid ‘anger management issues’ comment

President Donald Trump and Swedish activist Greta Thunberg come from very different perspectives. While Greta is best known as a climate change activist, Trump...

Pick your wing to reveal who your guardian angel is

Sometimes, you may feel the presence of an invisible guide that offers protection and remind you you are not alone. That comforting presence could...

Doctor issues warning about eating too much rice

Rice is a great source of gut-friendly fiber, complex carbohydrates, and B vitamins. The fiber in brown and wild rice supports digestive health by...