Liberia: A peaceful retirement for chimpanzees rescued from laboratories

After years spent in laboratories, several chimpanzees are finally getting a life away from scientific experiments. In Liberia, they now live on mangrove-covered islands, where they can roam freely in a protected environment.

Many had been captured very young in the wild before being used for research. Their new lives are now structured around group movements, social interaction, and veterinary care tailored to their age.

At the end of August, a series of examinations were carried out to monitor their health. Blood and stool tests, ultrasounds, and examinations of bones, muscles, and joints were performed to identify any potential problems and adjust their treatment accordingly.

This new life also takes on a special dimension for conservation. The West African chimpanzee is classified as critically endangered by the IUCN. The site thus welcomes several dozen of these animals and ensures their lifelong care.

Far from cages and research protocols, these former laboratory residents now have a space where they can grow old safely, surrounded by their peers.

Yolande Bazié