Unusual: Pipito, the chimpanzee of Sancti Spíritus, approaches 56 years old

That the common chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) is characterized by its advanced intelligence, often compared to that of human beings, is clear to the workers of the Sancti Spíritus Zoo, who are involved every day in the care of Pipito, the “spoiled child” of the facility.

According to Taimí Mencía Venegas, doctor of Veterinary Medicine and director of the Zoo, Pipito is one of the longest-living chimpanzees in captivity in Cuba, since next December he will be 56 years old, something rare for this animal species.

He explained that, according to his technical file, Pipito was born on December 5, 1969 at the National Zoo and, when he was only three years old, he was transferred to one of the rooms of the facility in Sancti Spíritus, where he is currently in good health and in good spirits, although he had to overcome several pneumonia during his stay in Sancti Spíritus.

He commented that his diet is balanced, but the ape prefers cookies and ripe bananas, however, he also eats food, vegetables and fruits; besides being one of the most attractive animals for visitors, given his tendency to socialize with anyone who approaches his cage.