Rolling Hills Zoo
SALINA, Kan. — Rolling Hills Zoo is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Shudak, one of the zoo's most beloved chimpanzees and a cherished member of the Rolling Hills Zoo family for nearly three decades.
On Friday morning, members of the animal care team discovered that Shudak had passed away during the night. While we are still investigating the cause of his death, one thing is certain—the passing of this beloved chimpanzee has left an immeasurable void in the hearts of the Rolling Hills Zoo family.
Born on March 21, 1978, Shudak was 48 years old. He arrived at Rolling Hills Zoo on August 28, 1997, as one of the zoo's original troop of four male chimpanzees from the Primate Foundation of Arizona, where he had begun life as a research chimpanzee. His arrival at Rolling Hills Zoo marked the beginning of a new chapter—one filled with compassionate care, enrichment, companionship, and the opportunity to thrive in an environment designed to meet his physical, social, and behavioral needs. For nearly 29 years, Shudak enjoyed the life he so richly deserved, surrounded by a dedicated team committed to his well-being and by guests who came to know and love him. Today, Tohlo remains the last surviving member of that original troop.
Shudak lived well beyond the average life expectancy for male chimpanzees in human care at accredited zoological facilities, which is approximately 32.5 years, according to more than 35 years of demographic data compiled through the Association of Zoos & Aquariums' ChimpDATA program administered by Lincoln Park Zoo. This maded Shudak's 48 years of life a remarkable milestone and a testament to the exceptional care he received throughout his years at Rolling Hills Zoo.
While guests admired Shudak for his intelligence and expressive personality, those who cared for him knew him as a gentle, playful soul whose quiet kindness left a lasting impression.
Shudak's gentle nature and remarkable presence also left an impact on some of the world's most respected conservationists. Among the distinguished guests who visited Rolling Hills Zoo over the years was renowned primatologist and conservation icon Jane Goodall. During several visits to the zoo, Dr. Goodall spent time meeting Shudak, a testament to the special role he played in connecting people with one of our closest living relatives. Like so many who encountered him, she experienced firsthand the intelligence, curiosity, and individuality that made Shudak such an extraordinary ambassador for chimpanzees.
"Over his 29 years with us, Shudak was an incredible ambassador for his species and stole the hearts of staff and guests alike," said Rolling Hills Zoo Curator Mark Echevarria. "He wasn't just an animal in our care—he was family. We are grieving the loss of one of the original members of the Rolling Hills Zoo family, and his absence is already deeply felt. He will be dearly missed."
To his caregivers, Shudak's personality was unforgettable.
"He always seemed to know when someone had arrived," recalled Registrar Vickie Musselman. "As soon as you entered the area, he'd come down and excitedly shake his arm as if to say, 'Good morning!' Then he'd look toward the refrigerator, hoping you remembered his favorite treat—grapes. If you weren't careful, he'd happily eat the whole bag. He also loved playing chase through the holding area. He always had to win—but I think he secretly enjoyed letting us believe we had a chance."
Former chimpanzee keeper and current Education Team member Lynne Rank remembered Shudak's playful spirit just as vividly. “He was one of the sweetest chimpanzees I've ever known."
Rank recalled a moment that perfectly captured Shudak's protective nature. "One day Tohlo spotted a snake in the habitat and immediately scrambled to the highest point he could find, screaming. Without hesitation, Shudak came charging over, grabbed the snake, and tossed it out of the yard. From that day on, he earned the nickname 'Captain Shudak.' He was always looking out for the others."
Among his troop, Shudak was known for his patience. While many chimpanzees eagerly rushed to receive meals or enrichment, Shudak quietly waited until everyone else had theirs before approaching for his own.
"He was simply kind," Musselman said. "He seemed to enjoy being around people as much as we enjoyed being around him. Whether he was watching us prepare diets or simply observing our work, there was a calmness about him that made every day a little brighter. He touched so many lives, and he'll never be forgotten."
Although the zoo community is grieving, Shudak's legacy will continue through the countless guests he inspired to appreciate and protect wildlife. As an ambassador for chimpanzees, he helped foster a deeper understanding of one of our closest living relatives and the importance of conserving wildlife around the world.
Rolling Hills Zoo extends its heartfelt gratitude to the many guests, members, volunteers, and supporters who have loved Shudak throughout the years. The outpouring of compassion reminds us how deeply one remarkable chimpanzee connected with so many people.
Today, the habitats he called home feel a little quieter, but the memories he leaves behind—the playful races, the eager greetings, his gentle heart, and even the legend of "Captain Shudak" — will remain part of Rolling Hills Zoo forever.