A Serenade for the Ages: Joshua Bell Visits the Sanctuary | | |
This week, the sanctuary was filled with more than just the sounds of nature. We were honored to host world-renowned violinist Joshua Bell and his family for a truly unforgettable visit. In a magical moment of cross-species connection, Joshua and his wife, acclaimed soprano Larisa Martinez, performed for our residents.
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The couple spent their Easter holiday serenading our chimpanzees and orangutans with world-class classical music. From a Spanish love song dedicated to Sandra (our resident from Argentina) to a stirring violin solo for chimpanzee Bubbles, the music brought a sense of peace and wonder to our chimpanzees, orangutans, and staff alike.
It was pure magic, and a beautiful reminder of the universal power of music.
Take a moment to enjoy the video below as Josh plays and Larisa sings for Sandra.
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Nutrition plays an important role in the daily care of each resident at the sanctuary. Along with a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, all of the chimpanzees and orangutans receive two to three different types of greens each day as part of a balanced diet. These greens provide essential fiber, support healthy digestion, and contribute to overall well-being.
The types of greens offered vary and may include romaine lettuce, kale, celery, Swiss chard, Bok Choy, Napa cabbage, collard greens, iceberg, green leaf lettuce, and other fresh options that are available. Each ape has individual preferences, and it’s not uncommon to see them select certain items first or return to favored varieties.
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Kenzy, for example, shows a clear preference for curly purple kale. When it is included in his meals, he takes time to examine and select the pieces he wants before settling in to eat. This type of choice allows the apes to engage in natural feeding behaviors while also ensuring they receive proper nutrition.
Providing a variety of greens ensures that the apes receive balanced nutrition while also offering choices that keep mealtime interesting and enriching. It encourages natural foraging behaviors, gives them the opportunity to select what they enjoy most, and adds a bit of excitement to their day.
| | Roots & Shoots Takes Root at the Sanctuary | |
This week marked an exciting new beginning at the Center for Great Apes as we officially launched our Roots & Shoots chapter with our first Zoom gathering. It was a wonderful kickoff, bringing together a thoughtful group of participants who are eager to learn, share ideas, and make a positive impact. We are grateful to everyone who joined us, and we would truly love to welcome even more of our community into this growing effort.
Roots & Shoots, founded by Dr. Jane Goodall, is a global program built on a simple but powerful idea: every individual has the ability to make a difference. The program encourages people to take action in ways that benefit animals, people, and the environment. Whether through small local projects or broader initiatives, participants are empowered to turn compassion into meaningful change.
This work is especially important today. It offers a way to stay connected, to focus on solutions, and to take part in something hopeful and forward-looking. At the sanctuary, it also gives our supporters another way to deepen their connection to the apes and to the values we hold close—care, respect, and responsibility.
We are currently launching this chapter with a focus on adults, creating a space for learning, collaboration, and thoughtful action. Plans are already underway to expand the program to include youth opportunities this fall, helping to inspire the next generation of compassionate leaders.
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Our next virtual meeting will take place on May 5th at 6:30 PM Eastern via Zoom, and we warmly invite you to join us. No special experience is needed, just an interest in making a difference and being part of a caring community.
If you have questions or would like to get involved, please email rootsandshoots@centerforgreatapes.org.
We hope you will consider joining us as this meaningful new chapter continues to grow.
| Celebrate Mother’s Day and Father’s Day at the Sanctuary | | |
This spring and early summer, we invite you to celebrate the special people in your life with meaningful visits to the sanctuary. Experiences that connect you not only with those you love, but with the remarkable apes who call the Center for Great Apes home.
On May 9, 2026, join us for Muffins and Ape Moms, a heartfelt Mother’s Day experience. Enjoy light pastries and beverages as you take part in a guided visit similar to our Afternoon with the Apes tour. Along the way, you’ll learn about the journeys of several ape mothers and hear reflections from Founding Director Patti Ragan on the sanctuary’s history and the powerful bonds within ape families.
Then, on June 20, 2026, celebrate with Drinks and Ape Dads, honoring fathers and father figures with a relaxed and engaging sanctuary visit. Guests will enjoy refreshing beverages and light refreshments while learning about the unique roles of ape dads and dominant males, along with stories from Patti about their place within the social fabric of the sanctuary.
Both events offer a thoughtful and memorable way to spend time together while gaining a deeper understanding of the lives in our care. Space is limited for each experience, and we encourage you to reserve your spot early.
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Employment Opportunities
We are seeking passionate individuals who share our commitment to the well-being of these remarkable great apes. We are currently seeking:
- Caregiver
- Caregiver Assistant
If you possess the skills and experience we are looking for (or know someone who does), we encourage you to apply today! You can visit our employment page on the website for more details on these positions and the application process.
| | Thank you for supporting the Center for Great Apes! | | | | |
