Aged to Perfection: Celebrating Popi at 55

There are some milestones that deserve a little extra celebration, and Popi’s 55th birthday was certainly one of them.

Orangutan, Popi, marked her special day with a fitting theme...“Aged to Perfection.” It was a joyful occasion shared not only by her caregivers, but also by guests attending our Afternoon with the Apes educational tour, who were able to witness a truly meaningful moment here at the sanctuary.

At 55 years old, Popi holds a very special place in our sanctuary family. She is the oldest orangutan in our care and one of the few purebred orangutans residing here.

With age comes wisdom, and in Popi’s case, a calm and confident presence that is unmistakably her own.

Her birthday celebration included thoughtfully prepared enrichment and special treats, designed to encourage natural behaviors while making the day feel just a little different from the everyday routine. As with all enrichment, everything was created with her health, comfort, and preferences in mind.

Popi has long been known for her appreciation of the simple pleasures, especially water play, which continues to be a favorite pastime. Watching her engage with her environment, even at 55, is a wonderful reminder that enrichment and curiosity remain important at every stage of life.

For those attending the tour that day, being included in Popi’s celebration offered a deeper connection to the work we do. Moments like these bring to life what sanctuary care truly means—providing not just safety, but comfort, stimulation, and respect for each individual.

Popi’s journey, like so many who call the sanctuary home, has led her to a place where she can live at her own pace, surrounded by care and understanding. Her birthday was more than a party; it was a celebration of a life well-lived and the continued commitment to her well-being.

You can adopt Popi today and be part of her ongoing care, or keep an eye out for our upcoming Adopt-a-Palooza in July—a wonderful opportunity to get to know Popi and many of the other remarkable residents in a special way.

Thank You, Volunteers!

Join Us in Orlando for the 21st Annual Earth Day Celebration

Celebrate Mother’s Day and Father’s Day at the Sanctuary

Make this Mother’s Day or Father’s Day truly meaningful with a visit to the sanctuary. These special event gatherings offer a relaxed, welcoming way to spend time together while learning about the remarkable ape families who call this place home. It’s a thoughtful alternative to the usual celebrations and a chance to create lasting memories. A few tickets are still available, and we would love to have you join us.

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.

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.

Other Ways To Help

Thank you for supporting the Center for Great Apes!