Many of these animals were originally captured from the wild as infants and spent years inside testing facilities. Today they live in social groups on mangrove‑covered islands where they can roam freely.

The West African chimpanzee subspecies is listed as critically endangered on the IUCN Red List because its numbers are falling rapidly, so protecting these chimps is essential.

To track their health as they age, specialists carry out comprehensive medical examinations that include blood tests, fecal tests, ultrasounds and joint‑mobility checks.

Regular health monitoring lets staff spot diseases early, assess bone and muscle condition, and keep the elderly animals in a safe, high‑quality environment for the rest of their lives.