Introduction: Safe Haven for Chimps (01:52)

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Chimpanzees enjoy their first taste of freedom after living in a laboratory. The United States government is retiring these primates. But what happens to them once they are no longer used for the purpose of research?

Welcome to Chimp Haven (05:30)

A 25-member chimpanzee troop lives at a sanctuary in Louisiana that opened in 2005. Raven Jackson delivers more residents to the facility, retirees from United States National Institutes of Health research programs. The chimps are wary of their new surroundings.

Worthy of Names (03:42)

For years, chimpanzees were exploited for entertainment and research. Jane Goodall’s work revealed that traits we once considered to be uniquely human are also shared by apes. Lori Gruen created the “Last 1,000” web site to document the use of chimps in biomedical research.

Introducing the Newcomers (06:22)

Four recent arrivals are ready to be introduced to the general population at Chimp Haven. Rose, Star, Christie, and Queenie Latifah proceed cautiously into their new play area. Sanctuary co-founder Amy Fultz has handled more than 200 of these first-time meetings.

Alpha Male (02:49)

The colony at Chimp Haven consumes about 124,000 kilograms of greens a year. Lindsey Peters tosses the chimps fruits and greens for their morning meal. Conan is the group’s leader, and he has fathered a few “oops” babies.

Observing Ape Culture (05:13)

Fultz inspects the chimpanzee habitat, finding evidence that residents have been looking for grubs. Goodall recalls first seeing chimps use tools to catch termites, years ago in Tanzania. The open spaces at Chimp Haven allow the troop to enjoy activities.

Apes with Infectious Diseases (04:43)

About half of the Chimp Haven residents have HIV and hepatitis, the result of medical experiments. Dr. Jackson checks on the infected apes, which are quarantined in a separate part of the facility. Goodall describes the deplorable conditions many research animals endure.

Building Rapport (09:02)

Jackson has bonded with Midget, who was initially aggressive towards her. Caregiver Mark Lewis uses simple training to build trust with the chimps he looks after. Music, movies, and novel treats are all part of keeping the residents stimulated and happy.

Future of Chimp Haven (04:30)

Humans have come a long way towards recognizing the depth and emotional complexity of chimpanzees. Goodall and Jackson describe how people are changed by their encounters with apes. Chimp Haven will need to expand as more research animals are retired.

Credits: Safe Haven for Chimps (00:35)

Credits: Safe Haven for Chimps