Happy Mother's Day

Dear Kari,


Today we honor our "Monkey Mothers"


At Jungle Friends, motherhood takes many forms—from devoted surrogates to mothers who’ve finally been given the chance to raise their own. Today, we celebrate three extraordinary monkeys whose love and devotion have transformed lives: Monkers, Zumie, and Michelle.


In the wild, monkey mothers care for their babies for years, forming deep, lifelong bonds. But in the pet trade, these bonds are often violently broken. Babies stolen from their mother's arms far too soon, leaving lasting emotional scars.


Here, we work every day to help heal those wounds—with love, patience, and the incredible dedication of monkeys like Monkers, Zumie, and Michelle. Their stories are reminders of the power of love, resilience, and second chances.

Meet Monkers

A Nurturing and Devoted Surrogate Mama



Monkers has helped raise some of Jungle Friends’ most fragile and dependent young monkeys. Her love is unwavering, her instincts are pure, and her impact is unforgettable.

Watch the video to see this incredible surrogate mama in action—you’ll understand why she holds such a special place in our hearts.

Meet Zumie

Litterally carrying on the Legacy


Zumie was the very first baby Monkers helped raise. Now grown, she has followed in Monkers’ footsteps—caring for Jungle Friends’ most vulnerable little ones with deep devotion and gentle instinct.


Together, Zumie and Monkers are an incredible surrogate duo. When a confiscated infant arrives at the sanctuary, it’s often these two who provide the comfort, stability, and motherly love a baby so desperately needs. Their bond is beautiful—and their impact, immeasurable.

Meet Michelle

A Mother Whose Bond Was Never Broken


Michelle arrived at the sanctuary already pregnant—a rare and bittersweet moment. While it was heartbreaking to know her baby would be born behind bars, it was also a moment of hope: this baby would not be taken from her.


You see, Michelle was used as a "breeder" and her babies were stolen from her at just 3 days old, over and over.


Michelle has proven to be a devoted, nurturing mother to Cindy. Her strength reminds us that the instinct to love and protect never fades, no matter the past.

Rachel and baby

The video below shows Michelle giving birth at our Sanctuary, nursing her infant, Cindy, and carrying her around on her back. It’s a truly touching moment that beautifully illustrates the powerful bond between mother and baby.

Monkers, Zumie, and Michelle represent the heart of Jungle Friends—a place where second chances are real, and the love of a mother, whether biological or chosen, can heal even the deepest wounds.

As I reflect, I think of my own mother and Jungle Friends co-founder, who gave me the courage and the strength to face life’s challenges. Her love shaped me, and I carry her spirit into the work we do here at Jungle Friends. Her compassion lives on through this sanctuary — and through your continued support.

Me and Mom

Thank you so much for your love and support for our monkey mothers,

Kari Bagnall, Founder and President

Jungle Friends Primate Sanctuary

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Jungle Friends Primate Sanctuary

13915 North State Road 121

Gainesville, FL 32653

(386) 462-7779

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