Meet Chimpanzees Billy and Bo

A Nest of His Own: Billy’s Priorities

Billy is a thoughtful, independent chimpanzee with a love for the simple things... his blankets, his space, and his juice! When Billy moved to his new habitat, he wasn’t about to leave his comforts behind. He carefully carried his entire pile of blankets through the aerial trailways to set up his new nest. Priorities.

Though Billy values his alone time, he also enjoys quietly grooming or relaxing near his companion, Mystery.

And when he’s feeling a little more expressive? You can’t miss it!

Billy has a one-of-a-kind dominant display — a natural behavior chimpanzees use to communicate strength or establish boundaries. His version involves growling, running upright, waving his arms, and a whole lot of personality. It’s impressive… and unmistakably Billy.

Adopt Billy Today!

Bo Knows Fun (and Friendship!)

Bo is silly, outgoing, and always ready to play. He’s a big fan of scatter enrichment (where his favorite snacks are hidden throughout the habitat), and he’ll enthusiastically forage until he finds every last small piece. When he’s not snacking, he’s usually inviting staff, volunteers, or fellow chimps to a game of chase with his signature high-pitched pant-hoot echoing in the background!

This year, Bo has formed a meaningful new bond with fellow senior Daisy. After the loss of his longtime companion Joe, Bo began spending more and more time near Daisy. The two are often spotted quietly grooming, relaxing, or simply following each other around the habitat. It’s a heartwarming friendship that brings joy to caregivers and reminds us that connection is possible at any stage of life.

While Bo enjoys the company of other chimps, he absolutely loves human interaction, and he’s not shy about wanting to be the center of attention!

Adopt Bo Today!

Adopt-a-Palooza: There’s Still Time to Show Your Love!

We’re over halfway through July, but there are still amazing apes waiting to be adopted in our 3rd annual Adopt-a-Palooza!

All month long, we’ve been celebrating 31 of our more reserved or often-overlooked chimpanzees and orangutans—those who may be shy, less social, or not as visible on tours. Each one holds a special place in our hearts, and they deserve to shine.

Symbolic adoptions include a limited-edition, ape-painted postcard. Adoptions include the option to schedule a virtual visit ($300) or a private tour ($400).

Follow along on Facebook and Instagram to meet the remaining featured apes—and help make sure no one is left in the shadows.

Learn More About Adopt-A-Palooza

Get Hands On With Enrichment

Date: Friday, July 25, 2025

Time: 10:30 AM – 1:00 PM

Cost: $35 donation

Ages: 12 and up

Join us for a fun and rewarding intermediate-level workshop where you’ll create durable, reusable honeycomb-style PVC feeders for our great apes.

These enrichment tools encourage natural foraging behaviors and are easy for caregivers to clean and refill, making a big difference in daily ape care!

No experience necessary! We’ll guide you every step of the way.
Includes: 1.5 hours of hands-on enrichment building + a group educational tour of the sanctuary.

Only 4 spaces remain! Sign up today!

Intermediate Workshop

Join Us for International Orangutan Day

We celebrated International Chimpanzee Day earlier this week, and everyone had a great time—now it’s time for the orangutans!

Join us on Tuesday, August 19th as we shine a spotlight on our red-haired great ape residents for International Orangutan Day at the Center for Great Apes!

This special event offers a rare opportunity to walk through the sanctuary and visit the orangutan habitats while hearing directly from the caregivers who know them best. You’ll meet some of the incredible orangutans who call CGA home and learn about their personalities, friendships, and unique stories.

Here’s what to look forward to:

A special Orangutan Talk with our Ape Care Supervisor for Orangutans
Guided educational tour focused on our orangutan residents
A pop-up shop with limited-edition CGA merchandise and orangutan artwork
Raffle chances to win amazing prizes

Tour Times (choose one):

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Spots are limited to the first 20 guests per time slot

Cost: $50 per person

Ages 15+ only. Participants should be able to walk/stand for about one mile. If you have any mobility concerns, please contact us before registering to discuss possible accommodations.

Don’t miss your chance to celebrate these intelligent, gentle beings and support their lifelong care.

Employment Opportunities

We are seeking passionate individuals who share our commitment to the well-being of these remarkable great apes. We are currently seeking:

Great Ape Caregiver

If you possess the skills and experience we are seeking (or know someone who does), we encourage you to apply today! Please visit our employment page on the website for more details on these positions and the application process.

July 25, 2025 - Enrichment Workshop (Intermediate)

July 2025 - Adopt-a-Palooza

August 19, 2025 - International Orangutan Day

October 7, 2025 - Giving Day for Apes

October 11, 2025 - Ape-ology: In the Field (Healthcare & Training)

November 8, 2025 - Art with the Apes

December 6, 2025 - Holiday Open House for Members & Guests

Other Ways To Help

Thank you for supporting the Center for Great Apes!