Chimpanzees rescued from the bushmeat trade, entertainment, and research require years of specialised rehabilitation before they can live in sanctuary groups.
Trauma in young chimpanzees manifests as self-harming behaviours, social withdrawal, and inability to form attachments. Effective rehabilitation requires surrogate mothers, gradual group integration, and stable social environments. Psychological recovery is as important as physical health, and many chimps carry the effects of early trauma throughout their lives.