Jenny

Former Resident

With profound sadness and deep gratitude, we remember our cherished Jenny Siamang Gibbon, who passed away peacefully on the morning of April 18, 2025, at the extraordinary age of 54. Jenny was surrounded by her primate companions, devoted caregivers, her dear friend Clay Miller and her veterinarian. Her departure leaves a silence that echoes deeply within the valley, but her legacy resounds in every corner of the sanctuary.

Jenny was captured in the wild in 1971 and brought to the Greater Baton Rouge Zoo that same year. During her time there, she gave birth to five infants, one set of twins among them, and endured profound loss as her first three babies passed away before their first birthday. Notes from the International Center for Gibbon Studies suggest that her mate, Frank, was aggressive, which may have made it difficult for her to protect her young. After she became pregnant with the twins, Frank was removed from the area. A gentler companion named Jason was introduced, and Jenny’s twins were transferred to another facility after weaning. After nearly two decades in the zoo system, Jenny and Jason were sold to an exotic animal dealer in 1990, then sold again before being donated to the Primate Rescue Center. Their arrival in 1992 marked the beginning of a new chapter, one of peace, permanence and the individualized care they both so richly deserved.

Shortly after their arrival, Jenny gave birth to a baby boy. She was a nurturing, attentive mother, and her son, Bradley, thrived in her care. In 2001, when he reached adolescence and could no longer live with his parents, Bradley’s care was transferred to the Smithsonian’s National Zoo in Washington, DC where he continues to reside today. In 2003, Jenny sadly lost her long-time friend and partner Jason and became the PRC’s lone Siamang gibbon resident. For a while, she shared her space with a group of colobus monkeys before eventually joining a spider monkey family, where she formed close, affectionate bonds – particularly with Chester, who rarely left her side. Her caregivers often observed the group lined up together, with arms and (spider monkey) tails wrapped around each other in a warm embrace.

Jenny was instantly recognizable by her long, graceful arms, sleek jet-black hair, and adorably serious expression. Her voice, however, was her signature – beginning with a deep, resonant “hoo” and rising to a booming “wah” that could be heard for miles. Her song was both grounding and uplifting, a daily reminder of the wildness and wonder she carried with her. She loved the warmth of the sun on her back and the swaying comfort of a hammock. Jenny delighted in leafy greens, especially kale and honeysuckle. On special days, she’d savor sweet slices of orange, though she couldn’t have them often due to her irritable bowel symptoms, snatching them up quickly and retreating to a high perch to enjoy her favorite fruit. 

Despite minor irritable bowel syndrome symptoms, Jenny remained remarkably healthy for over three decades of life at the PRC. In late 2024, caregivers noticed subtle but steady changes in Jenny’s energy level and appetite. Following a physical exam and diagnostic testing by her veterinarian, Jenny was diagnosed with kidney disease. In the months that followed, she was closely monitored and lovingly supported by her caregivers with medication, supplements and ongoing quality-of-life evaluations to ensure her comfort and dignity.

Jenny’s presence shaped the very heart of the Primate Rescue Center. Her grace, strength and unshakable spirit inspired awe in everyone who met her. For 33 years, she was a fixture here – a quiet leader, a loving companion and a living connection to a mission that spans decades. We think often of her sweet face, funny walk, graceful swings and beautiful song.

The sanctuary is forever changed without her song and bold personality, but we will carry her spirit forward in every act of care, every sweet hello and every morning chorus of the primates who remain. We hope to hear her voice in the wind, swinging free beyond the trees, finding peace and freedom after a glorious life well lived. Rest well, Jenny. You will always be with us.