Lucy, Anna, April, and Cash, known as the Ohio Four after their rescue from an Ohio roadside zoo last year, have been released onto their new 3-acre island home!

Before their rescue, they were confined to a dark, garage-sized enclosure with only limited access to a small outdoor area. Cash, fearful of the dark tunnel connecting to the outdoor enclosure, had never mustered the courage to venture outside. Since their rescue, they adapted first to large outdoor play yards and then to introductions into a large chimpanzee family, known as Seve’s family.

Sarah Poirier, Chimpanzee Care Manager, said, “When we release chimps onto their island for the first time, we never know how they will react. So it was so heartwarming to watch the girls (April, Anna, and Lucy) venture out immediately. While Cash needed a little more time, I was happy to watch him explore the island shortly after. One of my favorite moments was watching Lucy run, just because she can, from one platform to the next. For days after, you’d see her playfully running from one area to another on the island. I’m also happy to report that they are all comfortable in all areas of their new space and have all quickly adjusted to the new daily routine with their new family.”

With eight of their new family members by their side, the four were recently given the opportunity to access the 3-acre island they will now call home. When the door opened Anna, April, and Lucy eagerly hopped through, ready to embrace the new adventures awaiting them. They confidently crossed the land bridge to the island, accompanied by members of Seve’s family, stopping to embrace in hugs along the way.

Cash was more apprehensive about his newfound freedom. He slowly exited the building and paced along the concrete patio, taking in his surroundings while his family explored. Gradually, he gained the courage to join them. He climbed one of the tallest platforms first, then explored other island platforms, taking time to sit and watch the vast sights of the sanctuary.

This is what sanctuary life is all about: companionship, freedom of choice, new beginnings, and a bright future. We look forward to the Ohio 4 spending the rest of their lives with the companionship of a large chimpanzee family and the space and freedom to choose how they’d like to spend their days.