The Problem
Chimpanzees in sanctuaries need to be supported and have enrichments to live fulfilled lives.
Chimpanzees in sanctuaries need to be supported and have enrichments to live fulfilled lives.
The project began with an exploration of how chimpanzees have been used and abused by the entertainment industry, medical labs, and by people keeping them as pets. Students studied the sanctuary\'s web site to learn about the chimps individual stories, which led to great discussion about wildlife and ethics. We are now in the process of making enrichment edible necklaces for the chimpanzees at an Oregon sanctuary (Freedom for Great Apes). This is a project we do every year, but this year the Covid pandemic has made it difficult. Since everything is virtual, all materials had to be packaged and delivered to student\'s homes. Materials included cheerios, dried fruit (dates, apricots, figs, apples, etc.), jute string, and needle (fabricated from a bent paper clip). Students were instructed on-line in how to make necklaces, and continued to work on them for the following week. Completed necklaces will be picked up from student homes and sent to the sanctuary in Bend, Oregon. We are looking forward to seeing photos and videos of the chimps receiving our gifts.