WASHINGTON—Humane World for Animals, Humane World Action Fund and Animal Protection New Mexico are delighted to announce that the remaining chimpanzees from the Alamogordo Primate Facility in New Mexico have been successfully relocated to Chimp Haven, a 200-acre forested sanctuary in Louisiana dedicated to providing a natural and enriching environment for chimpanzees formerly used in biomedical research.
This final transfer marks the culmination of years of dedicated advocacy and legal efforts aimed at ensuring these animals could retire in a setting that caters to their unique needs after years of painful experimentation.
In November 2024, the National Institutes of Health finally reversed its prior stance of insisting the chimpanzees live out their lives in the laboratory, and committed to granting them sanctuary at Chimp Haven, as required by law. This is following significant pressure from animal welfare organizations and supporters, including a winning lawsuit brought by Humane World for Animals (formerly called the Humane Society of the United States), Humane World Action Fund (formerly called Humane Society Legislative Fund), Animal Protection New Mexico and individual plaintiffs.
The relocation process began earlier this year, when 10 chimpanzees— Al, Faylene, Kamaka, Olivia, BC, JD, Sherril, Tillina, Pearl and Nickel—arrived at Chimp Haven. The remaining chimpanzees have now joined them at Chimp Haven, where they will have the opportunity to live out their lives in an environment closely resembling their natural habitat, forming social bonds and engaging in species-typical behaviors.
Kathleen Conlee, vice president of animal research issues at Humane World for Animals, said:
"After years of relentless advocacy, we are overjoyed to see these chimpanzees finally embrace the freedom and dignity they were long denied. Their arrival at Chimp Haven is more than just a victory for them—it’s proof that unwavering dedication and perseverance can create a future where all animals are treated with the compassion they deserve."
Tracie Letterman, vice president of federal affairs for Humane World Action Fund, said:
"After years of pain and captivity, these chimpanzees are finally free—and that freedom is the result of tireless commitment, alongside our partners at APNM, that helped pave the way for this historic victory. This moment proves that when compassion is paired with determined legal and advocacy efforts, real change is possible. Their journey to sanctuary is a powerful testament to the impact of fighting for every life."
Lisa Jennings, executive director for Animal Protection New Mexico, said:
“This is a moment of profound relief and deep pride. For three decades we stood with these chimpanzees through every setback, every delay, and every challenge. We never gave up—because their lives mattered, and they deserved a future beyond the confines of a lab. Seeing them step into the sunlight of sanctuary at Chimp Haven will be the ultimate affirmation of what determined, compassionate advocacy can achieve.”
According to Chimp Haven, this first group of chimps are doing well: “Al quickly stole hearts playing the cool and calm wingman to his more mischievous buddy, Kamaka. Olivia is quite the spitfire while Nickel has more of a grandmother’s temperament… We already love them and can’t wait to introduce them to more of their new life at Chimp Haven.”
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These chimpanzees have finally been given the opportunity to enjoy their remaining years in comfort and safety—something they so richly deserve.