In loving memory of
Angelica

About Me

In Loving Memory

1986 – 2025

Angelica was a highly social and popular member of the family on Bobby’s Island. She was a quirky explorer who walked on her fists, instead of her knuckles like most chimpanzees. She had impeccable hygiene and used spatulas and other reflective surfaces to thoroughly groom herself. Although kind to her human caregivers, she was more interactive with other chimpanzees. She showed her fun side, especially while playing with members of her family and the hanging enrichment toys.

“Angelica’s absence is greatly felt at the sanctuary,” says Save the Chimps CEO Ana Paula Tavares. “She had a tremendous impact on the chimpanzees in her group and the humans who loved to take care of her.” Our veterinary team suspects heart disease was the cause of death, but we are awaiting test results to confirm this diagnosis.

In 2002, Angelica was among the 266 chimpanzees rescued from the Coulston Foundation by Save the Chimps. She was born at the research center in 1986 and was used in a laboratory breeding program. She is survived by two children born at the lab – Janice and Cody – who also made it to Save the Chimps and continue to thrive at the sanctuary.

A fond memory from Curator, Skye Conners

I’ll always remember how welcoming Angelica was when we introduced new chimpanzees to Bobby’s Island. A chimp named Terry was nervous as he learned how to be around a larger group of chimpanzees. Angelica carefully approached and gave Terry a giant hug which put him at ease. When we introduced Capone, she did the exact same thing! Such a friendly soul.