Project Chimps Blog

Kyrstin arrived at Project Chimps in 2019, making this her 4th birthday at the sanctuary. She lives in Chimps Ahoy villa, where she can be quite the little firecracker!

By James Haworth  August is National Make-a-Will Month, a perfect time to reflect on how you can make a lasting impact on causes close to your heart. At Project Chimps, the Legacy Society is made up of generous and forward-thinking individuals who’ve included the sanctuary in their estate plans. This ensures that we can continue…

At the sanctuary, caregivers are careful to only give the chimps toys that we think will withstand the 1300 PSI bite force of chimpanzees. Hard rubber toys made for large dogs are great when looking for chimp chew toys. Marlon’s favorite rose chew toy is a perfect example of this!

Bo may be young, but he shouldn’t be underestimated! He’s a fair, strong leader who has made so much progress as the alpha over time.

As one of the youngest female chimps at the sanctuary, Roxy is playful, curious and a little mischievous. She always keeps things interesting!

By Ari D’Arconte Bananarama III is the third annual charity drag variety show supporting Project Chimps. Hosted by Jolene Goodall (famous primatologist Jane Goodall’s fake sister) and Amber Nash (Project Chimps board member and voice over actress from Archer). With special performances by Berlinda Wall and others. This show will be an amazing experience while…

Chimpanzees are playful by nature, and the right toy can provide them outlets to have fun! Chimps have different personalities and preferences that influence what they play with. Emma chooses to play with a simple toy that her unique mind can run wild with. Making up creative ways to play.

Sasha has a mild and sweet disposition but that doesn’t mean she’s happy to let anyone else push her around. She’s high-ranking and has strong bonds with both the males and females.

Ray came to Project Chimps when he was just 9 years old. He lives in the Laurie & Carlee McGrath Chateau Villa alongside several other youngsters which can lead to some interesting dynamics! 

By Ari D’Arconte Meet Dr. Stephanie Poindexter who joined the Project Chimps board of directors in 2020. Dr. Poindexter is an assistant professor at the University of Buffalo who studies nocturnal primates. She got involved with Project Chimps after advocating an addendum on a bill helping to ban the interstate primate pet trade. Her research…

Kassie has a bit of a flair for the dramatic. Because she has friends in high places, she tends to get away with these dramatic episodes. 

According to her caregivers, Lizzy and her favorite Grinch toy are practically inseparable. She even helps keep him clean by grooming him!

Jamie has been exploring the outdoors a lot recently — she’s even gotten a tan! But although she’s been venturing farther, she always makes sure to come back for her next serving of juice. 

Stuffed animals at the sanctuary usually only last a few days. This is thanks to chimps being so strong. Because of this, some chimps here at the sanctuary aren’t allowed to have fragile toys. But some chimps have much more of a gentle touch when it comes to their toys.

As Project Chimps celebrates its 10-year anniversary, President and Founding Board Member, Bruce Wagman, reflects on its origins and the milestones that have been achieved along the way.