In loving memory of
Cheetah

About Me

In Loving Memory
1975-2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Cheetah, a beloved chimpanzee who captured the hearts of staff, volunteers, and supporters at Save the Chimps.

Cheetah was estimated to be 49 years old. His early years remain a mystery, and it is unknown if he was born in the wild or captivity. In 1983, he arrived at the Laboratory for Experimental Medicine and Surgery in Primates (LEMSIP), a now-defunct lab in New York. For thirteen long years, Cheetah endured life alone in a steel cage measuring just 25 square feet. During this time, he was subjected to over 400 liver biopsies. When LEMSIP closed in 1996, Cheetah was sent to the Coulston Foundation, a laboratory in Alamogordo, New Mexico. There, he lived in a concrete and steel cage and was used in at least one biomedical research study.

In 2002, Cheetah’s life changed forever when he was among the 266 chimpanzees rescued by Save the Chimps. Fresh fruit and vegetables, blankets, toys, enrichment, and loving care became part of his daily life. After decades of isolation, Cheetah found companionship in Timmy, who became his best friend for the rest of his life. Later, they were joined by Tuffy, who came from private ownership, and the three spent their days together in our Special Needs play yards.

“Cheetah was highly intelligent and curious, with a keen interest in humans. When the mood struck him, he loved painting—though his creations often ended up on the floors, walls, and even in his mouth! His passing will be deeply mourned by Timmy and Tuffy, and we will do all we can to support them through this heartbreaking time,” said CEO Ana Paula Tavares.

Cheetah’s zest for life remained until his final moments. On his last day, he played tickle stick with his caregiver, Madie, showed curiosity about his caregivers’ new boots, and joyfully ran the length of the play yard with his dear friend Timmy. His passing was sudden and peaceful.

Chimpanzees are considered elderly at the age of 36, and Cheetah lived until the advanced age of 49. Given his medical history, we suspect his sudden passing was due to heart disease, though our veterinary team will confirm the cause of death once more details are available.

Cheetah’s presence will be deeply missed, but we will always remember his strength and curiosity, and the joy he brought to all around him.