Every arrival at the sanctuary is a victory against wildlife trafficking. But behind every rescue lies a story we may never fully know.
A few weeks ago, two young chimpanzees were confiscated in Lubumbashi thanks to the intervention of the Provincial Director of the ICCN. We know very little about their past, except that they had been offered for sale to an amusement park combining rides and wild animals.
Fortunately, Congolese law protects chimpanzees, a threatened species whose capture, trade, and ownership are strictly regulated. In accordance with conservation procedures, these young primates were entrusted to a specialized sanctuary where they will have the opportunity to heal, integrate into social groups, and one day, where possible, return to a life closer to what nature intended.
Today, we wish to introduce our two newcomers: Salva and Bianca.
Two Personalities, Two Stories
Salva, a young male estimated to be around two years old, appears to have retained a sense of trust in the world around him. Despite his young age and everything he has already endured, he is curious, observant, and in relatively good physical and psychological condition.
Bianca, believed to be around three years old, tells a different story. Wary and sometimes aggressive, she carries invisible scars from a difficult past. The fear and suffering she likely experienced have deeply affected her relationship with humans. Every step she takes toward trust will be a small but meaningful victory.
Like all new arrivals, Salva and Bianca are currently undergoing quarantine under daily veterinary supervision. They are sharing this important period with Angéline, our devoted surrogate chimpanzee mother, who provides comfort, reassurance, and stability as they begin their rehabilitation journey.
Behind Every Baby Chimpanzee Lies a Tragedy
A baby chimpanzee never ends up alone by chance.
To capture a young chimpanzee for the illegal wildlife trade, poachers typically kill several members of the group, often including the mother who protects her infant until her final breath. Every rescued baby therefore represents an immense loss for a chimpanzee family and for the forests they call home.
Salva and Bianca survived. Many others do not.
A Growing Family
With the arrival of these two youngsters, the sanctuary is now home to 178 rescued lives, including 48 chimpanzees.
Every new arrival requires specialized care, infant formula, proper nutrition, veterinary treatment, secure facilities, and the daily dedication of our staff.
Our mission is to help them heal, regain natural behaviors, gradually integrate into stable social groups, and, whenever possible, move closer to a future in the wild.
You Can Help Change Their Future
Rescue is only the first step in a very long journey.
Caring for Salva and Bianca will require years of commitment, expertise, and resources. That is why we are reaching out for your support.
You can donate or become a sponsor of Salva, Bianca, or another sanctuary resident through our sponsorship program. Sponsorships are available for 6 months, 12 months, or longer.
Your support directly contributes to their food, veterinary care, enrichment activities, and rehabilitation.
By sponsoring a chimpanzee, you are helping to fight wildlife trafficking and giving an animal that has suffered at the hands of humans a genuine second chance at life.
Salva and Bianca cannot tell their own story.
But together, we can help write the next chapter.
Thank you for standing with us and helping protect those who cannot speak for themselves.
Many thanks also to the DRC authorities for their trust!