Bonds between humans and animals are as old as time. To see unique, history-making friendships struck up that go beyond the average dog or cat pet scenarios is something quite remarkable.
Even when used for study, certain creatures find a way to forge a permanent place in the hearts of everyone they meet – especially their caretakers. Mama, a chimpanzee who used to reside at the Royals’ Burger Zoo in Netherlands, had such an effect on humans and fellow apes alike.
Seen in this video from last spring, the 59-year-old chimp was the oldest in her country and rose to fame as the matriarch of her troop. Though Mama was in her last days during the filming of this, the clip is now making the rounds because of her relationship with Professor Jan van Hooff.
Mama was born in 1957 and brought to Royals’ Burger Zoo in 1971 along with two other females. For years, she and her colony were under the care of Dr. van Hooff as he studied their behavior. She was known for being strong-willed, dominant, and a master mediator. If ever there was an alpha female among chimps, she was it.
Mama had so much power in the group that males came to her for advice too. Affectionately called the “grand lady” of the colony, it was during that time that she formed a tight bond with her caretaker. Even after his visits slowed, it remained intact. Shown lying down, Mama was terminally ill and refusing to eat or drink.
It is hard to watch, but you realize she knows it is her time. Like humans, comfort and peace are what you want to bring to someone as time winds down. Knowing this, Dr. Van Hooff showed up to pay a visit to his dear friend.
He approached her curled up body and began stroking her arm. She barely looked up. When he extended his hand with some food, some part of her began to awaken. That hand? The voice? Could it be?
Finally, Mama looked up at his face and it was instant. Doc! She moved, gazed up at him, and started beaming. Watch the video to see one of Mama’s final moments of joy as she recognizes her pal who came to say farewell. There’s no shortage of love in that room as few words are expressed. Have your tissues ready.
About a week later, Mama passed away, leaving behind a family of apes and humans. According to a story with MSN, the chimps were separated into two groups so they could all say their goodbyes to her. Some of them were so overcome with emotion they did not want to let her go. Such was her legacy.
If you’ve ever experienced watching a loved one depart from this place, then you can relate to the feeling. Mama will be sorely missed but her influence will continue to affect her colony.
What are your thoughts on this heartwarming video? Are you familiar with Mama’s story? Have you ever reunited with someone like this in their final moments?
