Where They Are and Where They Should Be

 

Chimpanzees are some of the most recognizable wild animals in the world. Chimps have gained their notoriety by existing in large numbers outside of their natural habitat. While we’re used to seeing them in zoos and entertainment venues, they are increasingly threatened as endangered animals. Answering the question of “where do chimpanzees live?” requires a hard look at some of the ways human beings have threatened chimps.

Chimps are native to West and Central Africa, living in the savannah and forests there. While they have had limited interactions with the indigenous human communities there, Chimps are not domesticated and live separate from humans. Despite this, chimps are commonly exploited by the exotic pet trade. Many chimpanzees live under captivity as pets. Even though this is often illegal and highly dangerous, chimps living in these conditions are not adequately cared for.

Chimps are also housed in research facilities all over the world. Because their genetic makeup is so similar to humans, they were often used for experimentation and research purposes. While this practice is legal in the United States and can provide valuable information, some laboratories do not value the wellbeing of the chimps, leading to their exploitation.

So where do chimpanzees live? They currently live all over the world in conditions varying from natural to abhorrent. When conditions for chimpanzees in captivity are poor, chimps should be rehoused in an animal sanctuary. Save the Chimps is a nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing chimps from exactly these scenarios. Our first chimps came from a research lab that failed to comply with regulations. Since, we’ve also rescued chimps from the exotic pet trade and entertainment industries.

Save the Chimps relies on supporters, donors, and volunteers in order to fulfill our mission. Our rescued and retired chimps are housed in our animal sanctuary, a facility that stretches over 150 acres. Maintaining our sanctuary and the welfare of our chimpanzee residents takes a lot of work. You can symbolically adopt a chimp and provide for them directly. Alternatively, we accept donations of money, food, toys, or supplies. Learn more about Save the Chimps by visiting our website.