A howler monkey at the National Zoo named Reuben has died, the Zoo announced on Friday. The monkey was euthanized today after enduring a battle with chronic kidney disease.
While howler monkeys typically have a lifespan of about 20 years, Reuben lived to be 23 years old. Most of his life was spent in the zoo’s Small Mammal House, which Reuben called home for 18 years. Although he never sired any offspring, Reuben did find fellowship with his howler monkeys counterparts and his caretakers.
In late August, the zoo lost its remaining meerkat, Dogo, at 14 years old. In March, a cheetah named Gat died at age 8.
Lifestyle Editor
Daniella Byck joined Washingtonian in 2022. She was previously with Outside Magazine and lives in Northeast DC.
