Chimps Rescued From Roadside Zoo Share a Hug After Moving to New Sanctuary Home

In a heartwarming display of affection, four rescued chimpanzees shared a hug as they began their new life at Save the Chimps, a nonprofit sanctuary in Florida. The Ohio Department of Agriculture recently relinquished the care of Anna, April, Lucy, and Cash, aged 13-26, to the sanctuary after rescuing them from a roadside zoo in Ohio.

At their previous home, the chimpanzees were confined indoors by an exotic animal keeper who has since been sentenced to prison. To ensure their safety and well-being, Save the Chimps’ workers traveled from Florida to Ohio to transport the primates to their new 150-acre sanctuary. Upon arrival, the chimpanzees expressed their joy through an endearing hug, marking the beginning of their life free from neglect.

Following a two-month quarantine in a spacious indoor enclosure, the chimpanzees will join other primates outdoors, where they can explore and socialize. Dr. Andrew Halloran, Save the Chimps’ Director of Chimpanzee Behavior and Care, said in a statement, “These are extremely intelligent chimpanzees who deserve the chance to explore a larger world. We look forward to seeing them thrive on a vast island habitat with 15-20 new lifelong companions, with the freedom to choose where they want to be and who they want to be with.”

Home to over 220 chimpanzees, Save the Chimps provides a safe haven for primates retired or rescued from laboratories, the entertainment industry, the pet trade, and roadside zoos. Their previous home, a roadside zoo in Ohio, had received numerous animal welfare complaints, according to People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). PETA played a significant role in the chimpanzees’ rescue and contributed to their future care at the sanctuary.

Brittany Peet, PETA‘s General Counsel for Captive Animal Law Enforcement, encouraged the public to avoid roadside zoos, emphasizing the importance of animal welfare. “It’s a happy new chapter for these four chimpanzees, who will have a great life, with lush grounds to explore and the opportunity to socialize with others of their kind,” she said.

As we celebrate the rescue of Anna, April, Lucy, and Cash, let’s take action to Support organizations like Save the Chimps and PETA in their efforts to protect and care for animals in need. By raising awareness, volunteering, or donating, we can contribute to a better future for all creatures, ensuring they live the lives they truly deserve.

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