Transfer of Government-Owned Chimpanzees to Sanctuary
In a significant development, nearly two dozen government-owned chimpanzees, who have been living in seclusion at a desert facility after their retirement from research, are set to be relocated to a sanctuary in Louisiana, as confirmed by officials from the National Institutes of Health (N.I.H.) during an interview on Thursday.
For many years, experts in chimpanzee welfare, along with several American lawmakers, have actively advocated for the relocation of these primates, currently housed at the Alamogordo Primate Facility in New Mexico. In 2021, the situation escalated when numerous animal welfare organizations filed a lawsuit against the N.I.H., claiming that the agency was in violation of federal law by not facilitating the movement of the animals.
Initially, the N.I.H. had determined that the chimps were too frail or unwell to undergo relocation. While this assessment regarding their health remains unchanged, officials acknowledge that moving the animals presents certain risks. However, the agency’s concern has recently shifted towards the looming possibility of a staffing shortage at the remote New Mexico facility, which could jeopardize the long-term care and welfare of the chimpanzees.
“This decision was not made lightly,” stated Tara Schwetz, the deputy director for program coordination, planning, and strategic initiatives at the N.I.H. “If we had more confidence in our ability to ensure their continuity of care, I doubt we would be taking this step.”
As of October 1, there are 23 chimpanzees, ranging in age from 34 to 62 years, still residing at the Alamogordo facility. These chimpanzees will be transferred to Chimp Haven, a well-established sanctuary located on 200 forested acres in Louisiana, which serves as the national sanctuary for chimpanzees.
