Inside Primate Welfare: The Science of Compassionate Care

Inside Primate Welfare: The Science of Compassionate Care

Inside Primate Welfare: The Science of Compassionate Care Chimpanzee Jeje. Ngombe island. What does it take to give a chimpanzee a truly safe and fulfilling life in human care? At the Jane Goodall Institute (JGI), we’ve spent decades answering that question — not just through groundbreaking research in the wild, but also by setting gold standards for the ethical care of primates in sanctuaries and rehabilitation centers around the world.  With their complex physical, emotional, and social needs, rescued and captive chimpanzees require considerable support to ensure that they thrive. We sat down with JGI’s Vice President of Africa Programs Alice Macharia — who works closely with our animal care experts, including Head Veterinarian of Tchimpounga sanctuary Dr. Rebeca Atencia — to learn a bit more about what makes a safe captive environment for primates, and why this is so essential.  First, we often see people online talking about keeping chimpanzees as pets — which we know is very dangerou…