Greensboro Science Center howler monkey dies at 27 ‘surrounded by the love of her caretakers’

GREENSBORO, N.C. (WGHP) — A longtime member of the Greensboro Science Center community has died.

According to the GSC Facebook Page , the zoo said goodbye to Augusta the howler monkey. Augusta and her brother Thurston came to the center in 2007 from Houston, Texas.

She was 27 years old, and due to her age she was closely monitored by the vet team for the last few years of her life. Recently, an abdominal mass was discovered and Augusta’s health began to decline. On Wednesday, the care team made the decision to euthanize her.

“In her final days, Augusta enjoyed special treats and warm weather, surrounded by the love of her caretakers,” the center said.

“Augusta was the first monkey I worked with, and I quickly learned she was smart and sassy. She did things on her terms, outsmarting her brother and teaching other howler monkeys tricks like softening biscuits in water. Augusta loved basking in the sun, admiring herself in mirrors, and silently judging from afar. She taught me a lot about being an animal keeper, and it was a joy to work with her. I know her brother Thurston is waiting for her on the other side. Love you, Augusta,” Carolyn, a keeper with GSC said.

“During her time with us, Augusta touched the hearts of many staff and visitors with her spunky, easy-going, yet stubborn personality. She was always looking out for her enclosure mate, Abby, and never missed a chance to sunbathe or admire herself in mirrors. We’ll never forget her little grumbles while enjoying an oatball. She will be greatly missed and never forgotten, ” said Laura, another one of Augusta’s keepers.

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