Adelaide Zoo recently said goodbye to this much-loved Hamadryas Baboon following a health check that revealed several age-related complications. Chappi was 21 years old and had spent her entire life at Adelaide Zoo.
A baboon with sass, spirit and a big heart
Born on 25 March 2003 at Adelaide Zoo, Chappi grew into the troop’s dominant female — a crucial role in baboon society. She helped guide her group, protect its little ones, and raise future generations.
Chappi’s carers remember her for her personality as much as her leadership.
“Chappi will be remembered for having the biggest personality of all our baboons. She was sassy, protective of the troop’s youngsters, and had a way of communicating exactly what she wanted with just a look.”
She was especially close to her grandbabies Jabori and Lily, who she lovingly raised as if they were her own.
And who could forget her signature look — bold brows and bulging cheeks full of popcorn during enrichment playtimes? A true baboon queen.
A name with meaning
Chappi’s name is a special nod to Tom Kaiwahia, a much-loved primate keeper at Adelaide Zoo who worked with animals for more than 30 years. Tom was known for affectionately calling the animals “chaps” — a nickname that lives on through Chappi’s legacy.
Remembering Chappi
From her playful antics to her leadership within the troop, Chappi left a big paw print on the hearts of zookeepers, volunteers, and the thousands of families who visited her over the years.
Her story is a gentle reminder that every animal — big or small, wild or cuddly — has its own personality, family, and place in the world.
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