Jamie the chimpanzee dies at 36 after lifelong battle with kidney disease

Jamie, a 36-year-old chimpanzee, has died at Project Chimps sanctuary in north Georgia. She had lived there since 2018 after spending nearly 30 years in a biomedical research lab. Staff had been treating her for chronic kidney disease since 2020.

Jamie was first diagnosed with kidney disease in 2020. Her condition worsened over time, leading to weight loss and requiring close monitoring. Despite treatment, the disease progressed until her death at 36.

Before arriving at the sanctuary, she spent almost three decades in a research facility. In 2018, she was moved to Project Chimps, where she joined a group in the Dorothy Jo & Tilly Villa. There, she held a mid-to-high rank among the females and enjoyed foods like squash, fresh pumpkin, and walnuts.

Kidney disease remains the second most common cause of death in chimpanzees. After Jamie's passing, her best friend Jurita is now receiving extra attention from the care team. A memorial for Jamie will be held at the sanctuary's Remembrance Garden following her cremation.

Jamie's death highlights the ongoing challenges of kidney disease in chimpanzees. Her cremated remains will be placed in Project Chimps' Remembrance Garden. The sanctuary continues to support her group, particularly Jurita, as they adjust to the loss.