Popi’s Golden Years: A Birthday Tribute to Our Oldest Orangutan

Guiding Gentle Connections: Meet Our New Team Lead

Great apes are intelligent, emotional beings who benefit deeply from companionship. While orangutans are more solitary by nature than chimpanzees, socialization is still an important part of their well-being, especially for those who have spent years in unnatural situations. At the Center, our introduction process is carefully designed to encourage these connections while prioritizing the health and safety of each individual. We are proud to announce Ricca as the newly appointed Team Lead for Orangutan Introductions.

Ricca rejoins the Center with a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of ape behavior. She previously served as a caregiver at the sanctuary from 2016 to 2023 and now returns with over 24 years of experience as a primate keeper specializing in great apes. Ricca holds a B.A. in Anthropology and Sociology from Agnes Scott College and has extensive experience introducing not only orangutans, but also gorillas, siamangs, mandrills, and colobus monkeys.

Introducing orangutans to one another is a slow, deliberate process. With guidance from veterinary staff, Ricca and the caregiver team carefully evaluate each orangutan’s personality, preferences, and history before planning a potential pairing or social group. This includes observations of behaviors, vocalizations, interest in others, and even past successes or challenges in social situations.

Meet Ewok – Quiet, Caring, and Totally Deserving of More Love

Chimpanzee Ewok may be one of our more reserved residents, but those who know him best will tell you that he’s got a heart as big as his presence.

Born in 1987 at the LEMSIP laboratory, Ewok grew up alongside Josh and Sabina. As infants, the three were nursery mates, and decades later, they’re still incredibly close. Ewok spends his days with Josh and Sabina, often relaxing in the aerial trailways or grooming in the nighthouse. Another special companion in his life is Maude, a gentle, submissive female who follows him everywhere. Ewok treats her like a little sister, often seen quietly grooming her or simply resting nearby.

While Ewok may not be the most outgoing chimp in the group, he still loves to play—and when it comes to food, he has some clear favorites. From crunchy scatter treats like cereal and dried fruit to refreshing ice treats on hot days, Ewok delights in the simple joys. He’s especially fond of leafy greens like bok choy and kale.

Ewok may be the dominant male in his group (except when Josh decides otherwise), but his true nature is one of calm leadership and quiet affection. Yet despite his endearing personality, Ewok is one of the least adopted apes at the Center, with only four symbolic parents.

That’s why we’re highlighting Ewok this month, because even our more low-key residents deserve the spotlight. With a $300 donation, you can symbolically adopt Ewok and receive a 15-minute virtual visit to see him in action. Or, with a $400 donation, you and three guests can meet him in person on a private tour. This month only, all new adoptions of Ewok will also include a one-of-a-kind ape-painted postcard in honor of our upcoming 3rd Annual Adopt-a-Palooza celebration!

Fun fact: On hot or rainy days, Ewok enjoys watching television as an indoor enrichment activity, dramas are his favorite, and when he hears the 7th Heaven theme song, he always comes over to see what’s on!

Starting in July, we’ll be showcasing 31 orangutans and chimpanzees who could use a little extra love. Last year, with your help, we tripled our goal, bringing in nearly 100 new adoptions! This year, we hope each of these 31 apes will find at least one new symbolic parent… and Ewok is at the top of our list.

Let’s show Ewok just how loved he is.

Last Chance for Afternoon with the Apes!

Join us for our final "Afternoon with the Apes" tour of the season on Wednesday, May 15 before we pause the program for summer.

This is your last opportunity until October to experience an exclusive guided walk through the sanctuary and see our orangutans and chimpanzees up close in their peaceful forest habitats.

• Date: Wednesday, May 15
• Cost: $50 per person
• Requirements: Ages 15+, must be able to walk ½ mile outdoors in Florida weather
• Advance registration required

Register now to spend a memorable afternoon surrounded by nature and great apes!

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