Primates are our closest animal cousins, yet historically, we have certainly not treated them as one would a beloved family member. For years, they have languished and been used and abused in research facilities. While some are still in these institutions today, others are under threat due to more widespread human activity.

Habitat destruction via deforestation is a main cause of declining primate populations around the world. Other major factors include poaching and the tourism, which preys on cute animals like slow loris, placing them in danger and fueling the exotic pet trade.

While these threats are troublesome, we cannot forget to focus on the good – like the wonderful work that sanctuaries do, rescuing victims of these destructive activities and spreading the word about primate Conservation.

So, go ahead — brighten up your day with the following five videos of some of the most adorable residents at primate sanctuaries around the world! And be sure to spread the good word about wild animal sanctuaries too!

1. Orphaned baby orangutan plays with a hat at Orangutan Care Center in Singapore

2. Baby wholly monkey finds happiness at the Isla de los Monos (Monkey Island) Reserve on Rio Napo in Ecuador

3. Baby monkey plays at Jungle Friends Primate Sanctuary in Gainesville, Fla.

4. Baby orangutan Rickina discovers her surroundings at the Ketapang Orangutan Rescue Center in Indonesia

5. Monkeys jump around and have fun at Born Free USA Primate Sanctuary in Dilley, Texas

Lead Image source:  Andre Engels / Wikipedia Commons featuring Keven napping at Nyaru Menteng Sanctuary in Indonesia