The first chimpanzee to call the Sedgwick County Zoo home has passed away. Audra was 51, and she arrived at the Zoo in July, 1972 when she was two years old.
Audra gave birth to Mwana, the first ape to be born at the Zoo, in 1984. She would give birth six more times to grow the chimpanzee population at the Zoo.
Zoo officials said Audra was being treated for age-related health issues and ongoing medical concerns, including heart disease. Her condition deteriorated rapidly on Sunday, June 27th, and due to her advanced heart disease, the prognosis for recovery was poor. Veterinary staff made the decision to euthanize her.
Caretakers remembered Audra as a spunky little lady with plenty of attitude. The other chimpanzees in the group were able to see Audra after she passed in order to process her death. Zoo officials will watch them over the next few days to look after their mental health and overall welfare.
Three of Audra’s offspring still live at the Zoo, and they are Mwana, age 36; Sukari, 24; and Mabusu, 10.
