Chimpanzee Lizzie celebrates milestone birthday at Belfast Zoo

Belfast Zoo’s oldest resident celebrated her 50th birthday.

Chimpanzee Lizzie was adopted by Josie (and Tommy) at the zoo.

She shares her home currently with six other chimpanzees including her daughters Kim, Lucy and her granddaughters Phoebe, and Pixie.

Lizzie had a stroke in the early 40s due to age-related issues. She also suffered another stroke in 2020.

She is now fully mobile and has surprised both vets and zookeepers.

In recognition of their dedicated work to Lizzie’s health, the ape team at Belfast Zoo were presented with a bronze award in 2021 from the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (Biaza) for Animal Behaviour and Welfare.

Senior keeper Lara Clarke said: “For her exceptionally old age, Lizzie is a very vigorous elderly lady with a big, healthy appetite.

She is the dominant female of the troop and is respected and loved by both her chimpanzee companions as well as all of the keeping staff

Lara Clarke, Belfast Zoo

“She is the dominant female of the troop and is respected and loved by both her chimpanzee companions as well as all of the keeping staff.

“She is very sociable with visitors and will often be seen at the viewing window, interacting with the public.

“We are happy every day that she is with us and hope to be able to celebrate many more birthdays with her.”

Chimpanzees are now considered endangered and face imminent extinction. The Jane Goodall Institute estimates that there are 340,000 chimpanzees today, a decrease of about one million in 1900.

Lizzie and Pixie, her granddaughter (Alan Campbell/PA).

Zoo manager Alyn Cairns said: “Chimpanzees and all ape numbers are in serious decline due to destruction of their habitats, hunting and the illegal animal trade.

“Belfast Zoo is part of a collaborative breeding programme and we play an important role in international chimpanzee conservation.

“These fascinating animals face an uncertain future and, without the support of conservation projects and zoos around the world, these animals could disappear forever.”

Lizzie celebrated her milestone day by unwrapping all her gifts with the rest her troop.