Brookfield Zoo's oldest resident, Cookie the cockatoo, has passed away at the age of 83

CHICAGO -- Officials with the Brookfield Zoo in Chicago on Monday, August 29th shared the sad news of the passing of Cookie -- an 83-year-old Major Mitchell's cockatoo who was the only remaining member of the zoo's original animal collection, which dates back to 1934!

Cookie was 83 years old, and passed away on Saturday, August 27th. Zoo officials say Cookie lived well beyond the life expectancy for his species.

According to Brookfield Zoo officials, Cookie was certified by Guinness World Records as the oldest living parrot in 2014! He was also the oldest resident at the zoo.

Cookie arrived at the zoo at the age of one from the Taronga Zoo in Australia.

Over the years, zoo officials say Cookie's popularity grew and he touched the lives of many zoo visitors.

He had admirers from around the world, and zoo officials say he would often receive cards, letters, toys and pictures from them.

Zoo officials have created a memorial fund for those who would like to make a donation in Cookie's honor. Contributions will go directly to the Chicago Zoological Society’s Center for the Science of Animal Care and Welfare for the care, feeding and well-being of the entire bird collection, as well as all of the animals that call Brookfield Zoo their home.