Chimpanzees in zoos have complex social, cognitive, and environmental needs that require sophisticated welfare programs.
Chimpanzees are among the most cognitively complex animals in zoos, and their welfare needs reflect this complexity. Poor social groupings, inadequate space, and lack of cognitive stimulation lead to chronic psychological suffering in captive chimpanzees. The best modern zoo programs provide expansive naturalistic habitats, carefully managed social groups, and continuous behavioral enrichment.