The staff at Sancti Spíritus Zoo are set to celebrate an extraordinary event this December: Pipito, one of the oldest chimpanzees in Cuba, will turn 56 years old. The official Radio Sancti Spíritus boasted on Facebook that the province is home to one of the country's longest-living chimpanzees in captivity. However, it has been revealed that Pipito's life was at risk several times due to the zoo administration's inaction.
Taimí Mencía Venegas, the zoo's director, touted the chimpanzee's longevity as a "zoo achievement," stating it is evidence of "the effort made by the animal welfare team" at the institution. This same institution faced harsh criticism last February for the poor conditions some animals were found in.
According to Mencía, it is common for chimpanzees in captivity to live between 32 and 40 years, making Pipito's upcoming 56th birthday in December "extraordinary." However, Mencía admitted that they did not expect the animal to reach this age. In the past, inadequate maintenance of the trees surrounding Pipito's enclosure prevented sunlight from reaching the primate, a situation that jeopardized his health due to the zoo administration's negligence.
The director noted that Pipito frequently suffered from pneumonia, a potentially fatal illness for primates as it is for humans. She highlighted the efforts of some doctors who had to assist at the zoo in caring for Pipito, implying that the institution has lacked qualified personnel or necessary medications to ensure Pipito's well-being.
Despite these past issues, Pipito has shown remarkable intelligence. One of his caretakers mentioned that he sometimes grabs the broom to clean his own enclosure, a surprising feat, although zoo workers are well aware of his cleverness. "He sweeps on two legs just like we do, and he knows exactly where the food scraps are," the caretaker said.
The caretaker also mentioned that Pipito is treated like a small child: "He is a baby that we must feed on time. We give him water with honey, all as part of a balanced diet with fruits and vegetables." Pipito eats once a day, but occasionally, in the afternoons, he is pampered with bananas and mangoes, his favorite treats.
Currently, Pipito has formed a close friendship with a leopard that recently arrived at the Sancti Spíritus Zoo. A report from the Escambray newspaper stated that the leopard cub was transferred from the 26th Zoo in Havana and now "enjoys a spacious cage," where specialists monitor its behavior and development.
Both animals add to the zoo's latest attractions, which also include the birth of a lion, one of the institution's main highlights. Jorgito, born last May, is growing strong and healthy, and due to the extraordinary nature of his birth, he is closely watched by the zoo staff.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pipito the Chimpanzee
Here are some common questions and answers about Pipito, one of the oldest chimpanzees in Cuba, and his life at the Sancti Spíritus Zoo.
How old is Pipito the chimpanzee?
Pipito is turning 56 years old this December, making him one of the oldest chimpanzees in Cuba.
What challenges has Pipito faced at the zoo?
Pipito has faced several health risks due to the zoo administration's inaction, including frequent bouts of pneumonia caused by inadequate sunlight reaching his enclosure.
What is Pipito's diet like?
Pipito is fed a balanced diet of fruits and vegetables, with water mixed with honey. He eats once a day but is sometimes given bananas and mangoes as treats.
Has Pipito formed any friendships at the zoo?
Yes, Pipito has formed a close friendship with a recently arrived leopard at the Sancti Spíritus Zoo.