“Former Research Chimps Finally Retiring to Chimp Haven: A New Chapter Begins”
In a significant development for the welfare of former research chimpanzees, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has decided to move a group of chimps from the Alamogordo Primate Facility (APF) in New Mexico to the Chimp Haven sanctuary in Louisiana. This decision comes after concerns were raised about the sustainability of care at the current facility due to the impending retirement of more than half of the caregivers by 2025.
The APF currently houses 23 chimpanzees, which were previously deemed too frail or sickly to be moved to a sanctuary. However, with the impending staff shortage at the facility, NIH officials have reconsidered their decision and concluded that it would be in the best interest of the animals to transfer them to Chimp Haven.
Chimp Haven, located near Shreveport, Louisiana, provides a more natural and spacious environment for retired chimpanzees compared to research facilities. The sanctuary allows the chimps to live in larger social groups and have access to wooded areas, promoting their overall well-being.
The decision to move the chimps to Chimp Haven marks a significant shift in NIH’s approach to caring for retired research chimpanzees. While the agency stopped supporting invasive research on chimpanzees in 2015, it still has over 300 chimps to provide for, many of which have been gradually moved to Chimp Haven over the years.
Rana Smith, president and CEO of Chimp Haven, expressed her excitement about welcoming the Alamogordo chimps to the sanctuary. She mentioned that the refuge has plans for expansion to accommodate the new arrivals, with an estimated cost of $4 million to be raised from private supporters.
The move to Chimp Haven is expected to provide the Alamogordo chimps with a more natural and enriching environment in their retirement years. The sanctuary’s staff is prepared to ensure a smooth transition for the chimps, allowing them to live out the rest of their lives in a setting that promotes their well-being and social interactions.
Overall, the decision to move the chimps to Chimp Haven reflects a commitment to the welfare of these animals and highlights the importance of providing them with a suitable environment in their retirement.