It’s a party for the ages at Chimp Haven as Jacob and Julius, the sanctuary’s oldest residents, celebrate an incredible milestone—turning 65! These two remarkable chimpanzees, who are the oldest living male chimps in the U.S., are proof that age is just a number when you’re living the good life at sanctuary. To put this into perspective, the median life expectancy for male chimpanzees living in professional care settings is 32.4 years.
“Jacob and Julius are living proof of what sanctuary means,” says Rana Smith, Chimp Haven President and CEO. “To see them thriving at 65 is not just a testament to their resilience but to the incredible support of our community, who help make it possible for chimps like them to live out their days with care and dignity. Celebrating their milestone birthdays feels like celebrating the very heart of Chimp Haven’s mission.”
Julius is a spirited character, famous for his loud raspberry noises that he uses to charm caregivers into bringing him his favorite treats. Though he’s known for his curmudgeonly demeanor, those who know him best appreciate his cleverness and unique personality. Jacob, on the other hand, is an easygoing and nurturing presence. Despite his age, he still climbs to the top of play structures for a panoramic view of the forest and enjoys grooming sessions with his friends. His loyalty and excellent nest-building skills make him a cherished member of his group.
“Julius is one of my favorite chimps to work with,” says Nancy Strever, a Behavior Technician at Chimp Haven. “I love that he’s a bit of a grump with a heart of gold, and through Positive Reinforcement Training, we’ve built a bond of trust that allows us to care for him in meaningful ways. As for Jacob, he’s the epitome of a sweet old man – he just makes you smile every time you see him, and there’s nothing better than watching him enjoy his enrichment. Celebrating their 65th birthdays feels like honoring dear friends.”
As the sanctuary’s oldest residents, Julius and Jacob benefit from specialized care to ensure their golden years are comfortable and healthy. Like humans, chimpanzees face age-related health challenges, including heart health concerns. Thanks to Chimp Haven’s Positive Reinforcement Training program, the chimps can actively participate in their care, making procedures like EKG readings less stressful and more effective.
“Working with older chimps like Jacob and Julius is an incredibly rewarding experience,” adds Strever. “Both of these boys are so special and unique, and I feel so grateful that we can make their retirement truly special while they live long, happy lives.”
This year also marks a major milestone for the sanctuary itself: Chimp Haven’s 30th anniversary. Since 1995, Chimp Haven has provided retirement for more than 500 chimpanzees, giving them the chance to live out their days in comfort, surrounded by nature and friends.
In 2025, Chimp Haven will welcome more retirees from Alamogordo Primate Facility in New Mexico. The sanctuary will also highlight significant milestones and its incredible journey over the last 30 years through special events, stories, and reflections.
To learn more about Chimp Haven’s legacy and ongoing mission, visit www.chimphaven.org.