Chimp Haven: World’s Largest Chimpanzee Sanctuary | Retired Research Chimps
Chimp Haven: Inside the World’s Largest Sanctuary for Retired Research Chimpanzees
Chimp Haven
Chimp Haven, located in Keithville, Louisiana, is the world’s largest chimpanzee sanctuary, providing lifelong care to over 300 chimpanzees retired from biomedical research, the entertainment industry, and the pet trade . Established in 2005 on 200 acres of forested land, this nonprofit sanctuary offers a naturalistic environment where chimps can climb trees, form social bonds, and live with dignity after decades of captivity .
History and Founding
The Need for Sanctuary
In the 1980s, the U.S. government and private labs bred chimpanzees for medical research, but declining demand left hundreds of chimps without purpose or care. The Chimpanzee Health Improvement, Maintenance, and Protection (CHIMP) Act of 2000 authorized federal funding for sanctuaries, leading to Chimp Haven’s selection as the National Chimpanzee Sanctuary in 2002 .
Expansion and Legislation
Chimp Haven’s growth accelerated with the NIH’s 2015 decision to retire all research chimps. A 2023 court ruling mandated that remaining NIH-owned chimps be relocated to the sanctuary. By 2025, even aging chimps from the Alamogordo Primate Facility in New Mexico were transferred, completing the largest retirement effort in U.S. history .
Sanctuary Features: A “Chimp Life” Philosophy
Naturalistic Habitats
The 200-acre sanctuary mimics wild environments with multi-acre enclosures, climbing structures, and forested areas. Chimps choose how to spend their days—foraging, socializing, or resting—ensuring psychological well-being .
Social Dynamics
Chimps live in groups of up to 20, fostering complex social hierarchies akin to wild communities. New arrivals undergo quarantine and gradual integration, such as Al and Kamaka, two males recently introduced to a mixed-gender group after decades in isolation .
Enrichment Programs
Daily activities include:
Cognitive Challenges: Puzzle feeders, KONG toys, and hidden treats to stimulate problem-solving .
Sensory Play: Music, movies, and novel scents .
Dietary Variety: Fresh produce, coconuts, and seasonal treats like pumpkins .
Resident Chimpanzees: Stories of Resilience
Chimp Haven houses chimps aged 6 to 65, many with traumatic pasts:
Tonka: A former Hollywood actor rescued from the entertainment industry .
Sarah: A language-study chimp who retired in 2006 .
Aging Population: Over 50 chimps are geriatric (35+ years), requiring specialized care for arthritis and heart conditions .
Education and Conservation Efforts
Public Engagement
Chimpanzee Discovery Days: Annual events with guided tours and educational talks .
Documentaries: Featured in Nat Geo’s Meet the Chimps series .
Internships and Research
Chimp Haven offers paid internships in veterinary care, behavior management, and conservation, fostering future primatologists .
Visitor Experience
While not fully open to the public, Chimp Haven hosts special events:
Tours: Pre-booked visits include hayrides and habitat viewing .
Accessibility: Gravel paths and rural terrain; limited wheelchair access .
Location: 13600 Chimpanzee Pl., Keithville, LA .
How to Support Chimp Haven
Donate: Funds support habitat expansions (a $20M project) and daily care .
Volunteer: Assist with events or outreach programs .
Advocate: Share their mission using #ChimpLife on social media .
A Model for Compassionate Care
Chimp Haven redefines sanctuary life, blending science, empathy, and advocacy. By prioritizing chimps’ physical and emotional needs, it sets a global standard for primate welfare. As CEO Rana Smith notes, “We’re thrilled to provide their happy ending”.
Call to Action:
Visit Chimp Haven’s website to donate, plan a visit, or learn more about retired research chimps.