Summer Has Arrived at the Sanctuary!

Memorial Day has come and gone, and while the calendar may still say “spring,” it’s definitely summer here in Florida—and our apes know it!

As the temperatures rise, the residents at the Center for Great Apes are already finding their favorite ways to beat the heat. Big tubs of water, shady spots, and cool mist from sprinklers are just the beginning.

Chuckie, one of our most playful orangutans, is always the first to dive into a tub or stand under a sprinkler with pure joy. He truly makes the most of summer! But not all of our apes are water fans—some, like Bubbles and Jam, prefer a more refined approach, staying cool and dry in the shade with frozen treats, air-conditioned night houses, or gentle fans blowing through their enclosures.

However, they choose to stay comfortable, one thing’s for sure, summer fun is in full swing at the sanctuary.

Want to see the apes cooling off? Watch our short video to catch a glimpse of Chuckie's favorite way to chill out.

Get Crafty for a Cause this Summer!

It’s not too late to be part of one of our most hands-on summer events—our Enrichment Workshops! These engaging sessions are a great way to get involved, make a difference, and have a blast, all in the comfort of our air-conditioned classroom.

You'll roll up your sleeves to create enrichment items like foraging puzzles, sensory toys, and other clever creations that help keep our apes mentally stimulated and active. Everything you make goes straight to enhancing the daily lives of the orangutans and chimpanzees at the sanctuary.

And the best part? After the workshop, you’ll head out on an exclusive educational group tour of the sanctuary. You’ll get to see the apes up close, observe how your enrichment items are used, and learn how your time and creativity directly support their care and happiness.

Intermediate Enrichment Workshop

Date: Friday, June 25, 2025

Time: 10:30 AM – 1:00 PM

Cost: $35 donation

Ages: 12 and up

Intermediate Workshop

Build enrichment that lasts! This intermediate-level workshop focuses on creating sturdy PVC honeycomb feeders. These reusable puzzles help promote foraging behavior while being easy to clean and refill for caregivers. Some basic tool use is involved, but don’t worry, guidance is provided, and all skill levels are welcome.

Includes approximately 1.5 hours of enrichment building
Group educational tour of the sanctuary afterwards

Celebrate Summer With a Gift That Makes A Difference

Summer is in full swing at the Center for Great Apes, and with it comes a flurry of birthdays and special anniversaries for our amazing orangutans and chimpanzees.

Want to help make their day extra special? Become a Day Sponsor! It’s a heartfelt way to honor one of our apes while directly supporting their daily care and enrichment.

As a Day Sponsor, you’ll be helping provide:

Nutritious meals and personalized care for the day
Special treats and enrichment items tailored to the ape’s preferences
A fun, meaningful celebration that reflects the personality of the ape you sponsor
Whether it's a birthday, sanctuary anniversary, or just because, your support brings joy to their lives and helps us continue giving them the best care possible.

Summer Birthdays and Anniversaries Needing Sponsorship

Hanna - July 9th

Tango - July 17th

Mowgli - July 22nd (half day)

Archie - July 31st

Billy - August 1st

Kodua - August 7th

Pongo - August 16th

Radcliffe - August 18th

Jethro - August 24th (half day)

As a Day Sponsor, you’ll receive a full-year membership to the sanctuary, including invitations to Member Days. You’ll also be recognized on social media (unless you choose to stay anonymous) as we celebrate your chosen ape.

Make this summer unforgettable—sponsor a special day for one of our amazing apes!

Become a Day Sponsor