Toby recently arrived at the Center for Great Apes and is beginning an exciting new chapter in his life.
After the death of his owner, Toby needed a permanent place where he could receive the specialized care and security every chimpanzee deserves. Today, he has found that home at the Center for Great Apes, where he will receive lifelong sanctuary care surrounded by people dedicated to his well-being.
Toby’s journey to the sanctuary was a long one. Our veterinary and care staff traveled to Indiana to bring him safely home, and after an 18-hour trip, Toby arrived in Florida ready to explore his new surroundings. From the moment he arrived, he impressed everyone with his curiosity, confidence, and bright personality.
Like many chimpanzees who come to the sanctuary, Toby’s early life was very different from the one he will experience now. Acquired as a pet when he was just a few months old, he spent most of his life without the opportunity to live alongside other chimpanzees. As an infant, he was separated from his mother and never had the chance to develop the social relationships that are so important to chimpanzees.
As we learned more about Toby’s background, we discovered a remarkable connection to our sanctuary family. Toby is the full brother of several chimpanzees who have called the Center home, including Murray, Ellie, and Tammy. He is also the brother of the late Jonah and Jacob, two beloved residents remembered fondly. His father, Joe, lived at the sanctuary after arriving in 2018. These family connections make Toby’s arrival especially meaningful.
Although he is still getting settled, Toby has already shown us glimpses of his unique personality. He enjoys exploring his new environment, investigating enrichment items, flipping through magazines, and arranging blankets into comfortable nests. During his first nights at the sanctuary, Toby carefully chose where he wanted to sleep, creating cozy nests and adapting to changing weather just as wild chimpanzees do.
For now, Toby is spending time getting comfortable in his new surroundings while our staff learns more about him. We look forward to learning more about his preferences, personality, and interests, and sharing those updates with you along the way.
Be sure to check back often as Toby’s sanctuary journey unfolds. We can’t wait to introduce you to the many sides of this remarkable chimpanzee.
