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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
CHICAGO ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY SADDENED BY LOSS OF OLDEST ANIMAL RESIDENT AT BROOKFIELD ZOO: COOKIE COCKATOO
WHEREAS, Chicago Zoological Society staff and those from around the country are mourning the loss of one of Brookfield Zoo’s most beloved and well-known animals: Cookie, an 83-year-old Major Mitchell’s cockatoo who passed away on August 27, 2016; and
WHEREAS, Cookie was the oldest resident at the zoo and the only remaining member of the original animal collection, which dates back to 1934, when the zoo first opened. Cookie, who lived well beyond the life expectancy for his species, arrived at Brookfield Zoo at the age of 1 from Taronga Zoo in Australia; and
WHEREAS, the popular bird, who was certified by the Guinness World Records as the oldest living parrot in 2014; and
WHEREAS, Cookie’s popularity grew over the years and he touched many people’s lives. He received many cards, letters, toys, and pictures from admirers around the world. Those admirers include a holy man and healer from Mysore, India, who founded a parrot sanctuary there, and who came to Brookfield Zoo in 2013 specifically to visit Cookie; and
WHEREAS, Cookie resided for many years in the zoo’s Reptiles and Birds (formerly known as Perching Bird House). His birthday became a popular event and was attended by hundreds of zoo visitors each year; and
WHEREAS, in September 2009, Cookie retired from being on exhibit and took up his permanent residence in the staff’s office. There he enjoyed the constant companionship of the staff he knew so well. He also received various enrichment items to occupy his time and stimulate his mind; and
WHEREAS, Cookie lived a long life at Brookfield Zoo where all of his physical and mental health were tended to by dedicated and expert staff who treasured him; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Chicago Zoological Society be honored for their exceptional care of animals and that Cookie’s life inspire us to do our part to care for all of Earth’s creatures.
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