Our favorite and beloved animal at the Chattanooga Zoo has died. Hank, a 42 yr. old chimp, was found dead this morning in his habitat where he died in his sleep.
I am so glad that the manager snuck Ryan in to work with Hank a few times last year, even tho he hadn't reach the level where it was allowed. (The manager can make the exception and was with him.). I remember how Ryan served Hank a tray of produce and that Hank wanted to share some of his lunch with Ryan. AN ONION!!! He forced it into Ryan's mouth and held it there until Ryan had finished it!
Hank would run and hug his caretakers when they would enter his habitat. Ryan got a few of his hugs and said they could be painful. lol
Hank's birthday was celebrated by the zoo each year and people would bring him gifts. He was afraid of the jack-in-the-box the first time it popped, but loved it after that. He had a Little Tykes Coupe Car and would drive that around. He was served cake and ice cream. He had a CA King bed to sleep in at night and wanted the caretaker to tuck him in each night. He was very spoiled!
Hank knew some sign language and would sign to you sometimes through the exhibit glass. He would also pucker up and kiss you through the glass.
Oh, Hank, it won't be the same without you!
Sounds like he was full of personality! I know this is hard on Ryan especially, but glad he got to have some of those experiences.
ReplyDeleteSorry to hear about Hank, but it sounds like he had a pretty good life.
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