This is Mama, a 59-year-old chimpanzee who was the leader of the group at the Royal Burgers Zoo in Arnhem, the Netherlands. The group is well-known for its pioneering research into primate behavior, which resulted in the publication of the book Chimpanzee Politics by Frans De Waal.
In April 2016, Mama was nearing the end of her life, sick and refusing to eat. When co-founder of the group and professor of behavioral biology Jan van Hooff heard the news, he returned to visit Mama and bid her farewell. He had known her since 1972 and the two had a strong connection.
Initially, Mama seemed weak and accepting of her nearing end and did not recognize Jan, but when she did, the emotions that emerged were unmistakable and beautiful. Watch the video below to witness the incredible bond that can develop between animals and humans, and keep some tissues on hand.
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She was nearing the end of her life and was unwell, which made it difficult for her to eat.
Upon learning about her condition, Professor Jan van Hooff, her old friend, returned to visit Mama and say goodbye.
This is Mama, a 59-year-old chimpanzee who was the matriarch of the colony at the Royal Burgers Zoo in Arnhem, the Netherlands. She was in poor health and could not eat. After hearing the news, Jan van Hooff, a co-founder of the colony and a professor of behavioral biology, returned to visit Mama and say goodbye. Jan and Mama had a deep bond and had known each other since 1972. Mama did not recognize Jan at first, but when she did, their emotions were evident. The video below showcases the remarkable connection that can develop between animals and humans, but be prepared with some tissues.