Obituary Holophernes
Holophernes, Holo, is no longer here
Holophernes was a tomboy and spent 11 years of his life - from 1986 to 1997 - in a laboratory. Since 2009, Holo, as he was affectionately called by his keepers, was under the protection of Gut Aiderbichl and lived in the monkey sanctuary of a former safari park in Gänserndorf.
Holo's charisma was special and he will remain unforgettable. He was dominant, but also very playful and humorous. As a result of years of being isolated, Holo had become a brooder, a strategist and a philosopher. He was the boss in his male group and by the way - he was a good boss. Always concerned about his housemates, he motivated them to groom themselves and play. With his special way, Holo managed to strengthen his comrades and give them self-confidence.
Holo - The rock in the surf
Holo was the rock for his friends. He knew his group members inside out and could feel their moods. His strategy always included a lot of humour, games and petting, but also strictness when it was necessary.
The outdoor enclosure was his paradise. For so many years, as a laboratory animal, he could not experience nature, no sun, no cloud, no breath of wind. To feel nature was his absolute personal freedom. He enjoyed his breakfast in the grass and afterwards he played with his friends.
Another passion was climbing. If you looked for Holo, you would find him on his favourite spot: on the highest part of the tree structure in his outdoor enclosure. When his friend Jakob died, Holo suffered for many days. He ate less and retreated to a quiet spot: his personal lookout tower in the outdoor enclosure. The keepers noticed the chimpanzee's deep grief over the loss of his conspecific and comrade for days. Monkeys can flirt and feel love. His great love was Gabi, who had also spent many years in the experimental cage. He waited for a glance from her direction for hours. When their eyes met, the day was saved for Holo.
Holophernes - A Great One Has Gone
A few days ago, Holophernes peacefully fell asleep in his beloved hammock. He lovingly made this sleeping place cosy with wood wool and bedding. This was now the place where he had taken the first step towards the Rainbow Bridge. The keepers in the monkey sanctuary mourn the loss of their big boy. Together with Holo's friends, they bid farewell to their comrade.
Holo's friends held a wake and showed their sadness by hugging and sitting especially close to each other in their boss's living room.
"If you seek me, seek me in your heart. If I have found a dwelling place there, I am always with you."
Dakota
Dear Holo, you are now with your friend Jakob in monkey heaven and will remain unforgotten for your friends and your carers. Thank you for letting us get to know you and being your companions.
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