The Quiet Ones are Worth Knowing Too

Throughout Adopt-a-Palooza this month, we've introduced you to orangutans and chimpanzees with all kinds of personalities. Some are bold. Some are playful. Some are impossible to miss.

And then there are residents like Hannah and BamBam.

They won't always be the first to catch your attention, but if you spend a little time watching, you'll discover there's so much to appreciate.

Hannah takes her time with just about everything. When her caregivers offered her a new special treat of pasta, apples, and honey, she carefully inspected it instead of diving right in. Then she noticed a spoon nearby. Problem solved. That thoughtful approach carries through much of her day, whether she's enjoying her favorite routines or quietly keeping an eye on everything happening around her group. She may be one of the quieter chimpanzees, but when Hannah chooses to get involved, everyone pays attention.

BamBam is equally observant, though visitors often hear him before they see him. His impressive long calls and displays can echo through the front of the sanctuary, reminding everyone that he's there. In between those moments, he's content to watch the world unfold from one of the best vantage points on the property. Living near the sanctuary's main office means he spends his days observing caregivers, staff, volunteers, and visitors as they come and go. He's even been known to rearrange his furniture (pulling a barrel over to the window of his nighthouse) just to create a better place to watch it all before settling into one of his carefully crafted nests at the end of the day.

Hannah and BamBam are a fitting reminder that every great ape has a story worth knowing. Some stories are loud. Others unfold quietly over time. But each one represents an individual with unique preferences, personalities, and relationships who deserves lifelong care and the opportunity to simply be themselves.

Today marks the final day of Adopt-a-Palooza, a month spent introducing you to some of the sanctuary's lesser-known orangutans and chimpanzees in hopes of helping them find new supporters. Along the way, we've been working toward one important goal: welcoming 150 new adoptive parents to help provide the lifelong care every resident deserves.

If you've been thinking about symbolically adopting an ape, today is your final opportunity to be part of this year's Adopt-a-Palooza celebration. Every new symbolic adoption helps provide nutritious meals, enriching habitats, expert veterinary care, and everything our chimpanzees and orangutans need to thrive throughout their lives.

Thank you for spending the month getting to know these remarkable individuals. Whether you've become an adoptive parent, shared their stories with others, or simply followed along each day, you've helped shine a light on the importance of lifelong sanctuary. We couldn't have done it without you.

Make a Difference with Roots and Shoots

Looking for a way to make a positive difference?

Join the Center for Great Apes Roots & Shoots Chapter! Open to all ages, our chapter brings together people who care about animals, people, and the environment through meaningful community projects inspired by Jane Goodall's global Roots & Shoots program.

Our next virtual meeting is next Tuesday, August 4th at 6:30 PM, and we'd love to have you join us. It's a great opportunity to learn more, meet fellow members, and discover how you can get involved.



To learn more or get involved, email rootsandshoots@centerforgreatapes.org

During the summer months, the sanctuary will be taking a short seasonal break from tours and special events. Our educational tours and events will resume in the fall when cooler temperatures make visits more comfortable for both our guests and the apes. Be sure to keep an eye on our Upcoming Events page and follow us on social media for announcements about new programs, tours, and special opportunities later this year.

Other Ways To Help

Thank you for supporting the Center for Great Apes!