The oldest chimpanzee alive, Rita had a birthday bash as she turned 58 on Thursday. Authorities of the National Zoological Park New Delhi made elaborate arrangements for the grand celebrations. It started at 11.45 am, with the traditional cutting of a tempting monkey-shaped cake with an entourage of onlookers. Children from Ramjas School, RK Puram, joined the celebrations and the cake was cut by Khyathi Nauyal, a 5th standard student from the school.
"Rita, also the oldest resident of the zoo, was born in Amsterdam in 1960 and brought to the zoo when she was four years old," said Renu Singh, the Director of the zoo. "Rita is a well behaved chimpanzee. Normally, the life span of these apes is between 40-50 age but she has surpassed that and we hope that she lives for many more years," the Director said.
In this winter, proper precautions are also taken in terms of her diet and keeping her warm. "She is being fed bananas, seasonal fruits, milks, onions, sweet potatoes, peanuts and one egg every day," she said.
Enthusiastic visitors gifted Rita soft football, toys, and a new blanket. A big screen was put up outside from where children and visitors can see the ape.
Jayanti Rao, a teacher accompanying the students, opined about the need for the students to attend such special days of animals as it may help students respect animals.
"We, the students, are very happy to celebrate Rita's birthday. last year also we joined the zoo authorities to celebrate the 10th birthday of tiger "Vijay"," said Soumya, the Junior Cultural Secretary of the Ramjas school, RK Puram.