ISTANBUL

Skopje Zoo, home to a 62-year-old chimpanzee named Mimi and hundreds of animals, is a popular destination for visitors of all ages, particularly children in North Macedonia's capital city.

Sharing insights into Mimi's daily life with Anadolu, zookeeper Aleksandra Stevkovska said the Bonobo chimp, one of the oldest in the word, receives special care from the team at the zoo, who see her as a beloved "grandmother" figure.

Born in 1962, Mimi began her life in a circus. However, as her health declined, she could no longer perform and was sold to a woman in Germany. This woman, who owned a flower shop, nurtured Mimi's love for plants.

Eventually, Mimi was donated to a rehabilitation center in the Netherlands, designed for chimpanzees rescued from abusive circus environments. There, she underwent a medical examination and was diagnosed with heart and lung issues.

Stevkovska said Mimi requires daily therapy: "Mimi is ill. She has heart and lung problems and will need ongoing treatment for the rest of her life."

Mimi's new life in Skopje

Five and a half years ago, Mimi was brought to Skopje, where she now resides with male chimpanzees Izi, 39, and Koko, 29. "Mimi plays the mediator of the group. When Izi and Koko fight, she calms them down," Stevkovska said.

Each animal at Skopje Zoo follows a specialized nutrition program, which is particularly crucial for Mimi due to her age and health concerns. Zookeepers use enriched food to stimulate the chimpanzees' motor skills, helping them remain active and mentally engaged.

Stevkovska highlighted the importance of specialized training for zookeepers, noting that staff from Skopje received training in the Netherlands. "When we arrive in the morning, the chimps recognize us, know who feeds them, and communicate with us," she said.

Mimi has formed a close bond with the keepers, often showing them affection. "Mimushka is a very sweet grandma who loves plants. My colleagues and I pick flowers and roses for her, and they make her really happy.

"It’s fascinating how she makes her own bed. She builds a beautiful nest out of a blanket, covers herself, and hides."

Stevkovska added that the zoo's chimpanzees are also involved in international efforts to protect animals. In cooperation with other European zoos, they participate in projects aimed at socializing and protecting chimpanzees that have experienced abuse or live in poor conditions.

*Writing by Efe Ozkan