Date opened 1995 Website www.chimps-inc.org Founded 1995 | No. of animals 11 Opened 1995 Number of animals 11 | |
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No. of species 2 recognized:Pan troglodytesLynx lynx Similar Center for Great Apes, Chimp Haven, Primate Rescue Center, High Desert Museum, Bend Ale Trail Profiles | ||
Chimps inc
Chimps Inc. is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) animal sanctuary located in Hooker Creek Ranch near Bend, Oregon, United States.
Contents
Chimps Inc. is a private sanctuary. Its purpose is to provide a safe haven for the animals and allow them to live in dignity in as close to wild conditions as they can handle after being raised by humans and then "retired".
History
Chimps Inc. was founded in 1995 by Lesley Day to house chimpanzees from the private or entertainment sectors in need of a new home. Although the sanctuary is primarily dedicated to furthering chimpanzee conservation, it also houses wild cats. As of 2010, the sanctuary was home to nine chimpanzees and two Siberian lynx. Jane Goodall is on the advisory board.
Programs
Chimps Inc. offers both a volunteer program and internships. The volunteer program is for adults (18 years and older) who can dedicate at least four hours each week to helping at the sanctuary. The internship program is designed for people who are working towards careers in animal care, conservation, education, or advocacy.
Disputes
In 2007, Chimps Inc. was involved in a legal dispute over custody of two chimpanzees, Emma and Jackson, sparking debate on whether or not non-human primates have rights.
Fundraising
The main fundraiser for the sanctuary is "the Civil War game", held in November at the Hooker Creek Ranch. For this event, supporters can become a sponsors, donate items for the silent auction, purchase TV advertisements that will replace the national ads on the ranch TVs, or just purchase tickets.
In 2008, Chimps Inc. was the beneficiary of the silent art auction that was a part of the 2008 Monkey Day celebration.