Springtime is in full swing at Chimp Haven, and the sanctuary’s beloved residents recently enjoyed a festive Easter celebration filled with colorful surprises and seasonal fun. From hard-boiled eggs tucked inside pastel Easter eggs to playful outdoor antics, the chimps engaged in an egg hunt that delighted both staff and residents alike.
The enrichment activity encouraged natural foraging behaviors while offering the chimps a chance to enjoy the fresh spring air – and some tasty treats.
“Holidays like Easter are a chance for us to add a little extra joy to the chimps’ lives,” said Rana Smith, President and CEO of Chimp Haven. “Whether they’re foraging for eggs or showing off their finds, these activities help the chimps engage with their environment in meaningful ways.”
Celebrating in Their Own Unique Ways:
- Riley, ever the showman, kicked off the festivities with his usual flair. He sprinted out to gather as many eggs as he could – cradling them in his hands and mouth – and paraded around the habitat to show off his haul, loud and proud as always.
- Heather, known for her calm and confident demeanor, opted for a quieter celebration. She carried her eggs under the leafy canopy of her favorite cabana, savoring her treat in peace.
- Meanwhile, Lucy embraced the laid-back vibes of spring, lounging on her tummy in the grass as she surrounded herself with her colorful finds, enjoying her eggs at a leisurely pace.
This Easter enrichment activity reflects Chimp Haven’s continued commitment to creating engaging, thoughtful experiences for the chimpanzees that promote exploration, joy, and natural behaviors.
Besides enrichment, Chimp Haven serves fresh produce to the chimpanzees twice per day, which includes leafy greens; non-leafy vegetables such as eggplant, bell peppers and broccoli; starches such sweet potatoes, and a special fruit.
Chimp Haven is a private, nonprofit refuge on 200 acres of forested land in Northwest Louisiana, and home to more than 300 chimps retired from biomedical research. For those interested in visiting the sanctuary, Chimp Haven has several public events planned in 2025. To learn more, visitchimphaven.org/plan-your-visit/.