Thousands of chimpanzees live in sanctuaries worldwide after rescue from bushmeat trade, the pet industry, or research. Providing for the complex social, cognitive, and physical needs of these great apes presents significant welfare challenges.
Chimpanzee sanctuary welfare requires addressing both physical and psychological needs of animals that may carry deep trauma. Animals from the bushmeat trade typically arrive severely malnourished, injured, and psychologically traumatised after witnessing family members killed. Former research chimpanzees show anxiety, abnormal repetitive behaviours, and fear responses associated with years of restraint and procedures. Rebuilding trust and social bonds is a slow process requiring specialised care. Sanctuary chimpanzees need large forested areas for normal locomotion and foraging, complex social groups, and cognitive enrichment. The long lifespan means sanctuary commitments extend for decades, making funding sustainability a critical welfare concern.