In brief
Chicago's Lincoln Park Zoo is helping former Hollywood chimpanzees Eli and Susie transition from a life in the spotlight to a more natural existence with their fellow primates, thanks to specialized rehabilitation efforts.
On a rainy day at Lincoln Park Zoo, the sounds of playful children contrasted sharply with the calm demeanor of the chimpanzees at the exhibit. While the visitors watched with excitement, another group of chimpanzees, secluded from public eyes, stirred with anxiety upon seeing unfamiliar faces. Among them were Eli, an initially timid young male, and Susie, a feisty female who felt threatened by the presence of cameras.Eli and Susie, both former stars in various TV shows and commercials before being relocated to the zoo in 2020, have experienced a profound shift in their environments. Until 2015, captive chimpanzees were not covered by the Endangered Species Act, leaving room for individuals to keep chimpanzees as pets, often leading to dire consequences. The recently aired HBO docuseries "Chimp Crazy" highlights the severe implications of this practice, showcasing the dismal conditions and the inherent dangers associated with keeping these intelligent beings in captivity.At Lincoln Park Zoo, experts are committed to reversing the unwanted behaviors these chimps learned in Hollywood. According to Jill Moyse, the curator of primates, the rehabilitation focuses on helping Eli, Susie, and others adapt to more natural, untrained behaviors similar to wild chimpanzees. There's an ongoing movement, led by groups like the Animal Welfare Institute, advocating for a national ban on the private ownership of nonhuman primates, underscoring the urgent need for change in how these animals are treated and protected.
