I interviewed Leslie Wade who is the Manager of Communications for Project Chimps, in Blue Ridge, GA.
What does Project Chimps do and when did it start?
We provide chimps that were involved in medical research with a forever home. The property was bought in 2014 and was ready for the first chimps in 2016.
In what ways do you help the chimps?
We provide shelter, food and enrichment (puzzles and activities) and the opportunity to be outside for the rest of their lives.
Did you always want to work with chimps and what is special about them?
Many of us were inspired by Jane Goodall and the awareness she brought to the plight of chimps. Chimps are very intelligent and emotional beings.
​Where did you find the chimps?
These come from the New Iberia Research Center affiliated with the University of Louisiana.
How many chimps are here and what is their favorite thing to do?
59. We are hoping to have 100 by year end. 120 more are still waiting in the lab. Their favorite activities vary depending on their personalities. Some love the outdoors, some don’t. Some have favorite toys. Some love puzzles.
Do all the chimps get along?
They generally get along. Sometimes they get into fights but make up quickly. Minor squabbles happen over food. Sometimes they are trying to get more dominant or preventing others becoming dominant. Chimp politics is a thing!
What is the best thing about working with chimps?
Watching them thrive after coming here. Seeing how they respond to having choices – like who to hang out with, what to eat, whether to go outside, what to play with etc.
What do you have to study to do what you do?
Some chimp caregivers did College programs studying Primates. Some here worked their way up starting as a volunteer.
How can I and the community help you?
Volunteering is a great need. Helping prepare meals, puzzles, building climbing structures. There are many volunteer opportunities. Visit www.projectchimps.org.
Rob with Project Chimps volunteers, Candy Retter and Aimie Whitworth, and Leslie Wade.