Cheeta

One of the only things I learned from Manila Bulletin when it was the only one coming out during Holy Week was that Cheeta is alive! Yes, the chimpanzee who played the other love interest of Johnny Weissmuller (before World war II!, is still alive.

Cheeta turned 74 on April 9th, 2006 and has been recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world's oldest chimpanzee. He's 4 foot tall and 142 pounds. He starred in 12 Tarzan movies during the '30's and 40's. Dan Westfall adopted Cheeta in 1992 from his uncle Tony Gentry, an animal trainer who worked in Hollywood and obtained Cheeta from Africa in the 1930s.

Cheeta now spends his days socializing with other primates and his caregivers. Cheeta's staple diet consists of fresh fruit, vegetables, and monkey chow.

The sanctuary's primates are provided with a variety of activities to stimulate their intellect and curiosity. One of the activities is painting, which allows chimpanzees to mimic their innate behavior of inventing and using tools.

Westfall says that Cheeta has become a wonderful abstract artist and has trademarked Cheeta’s creations as “Ape-stract.” “They are pretty” says Westfall, who gives the art to donors who support the non-profit with a donation of $125 or more. The proceeds go to support the Cheeta Primate Sanctuary.