Liberating the Lab Chimps: A New Chapter for NIH Research Animals

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) plans to relocate 23 retired research chimpanzees from New Mexico to a sanctuary in Louisiana, overcoming challenges like staffing shortages. Animal advocacy groups celebrate this decision after years of legal and lobbying efforts to ensure a comfortable retirement for the animals.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) announced plans to relocate 23 retired research chimpanzees from New Mexico's Alamogordo Primate Facility to a sanctuary in Louisiana, addressing a long-standing concern raised by animal advocacy groups. This decision follows years of pressure to provide these chimpanzees with a dignified retirement.

The move was necessitated by staffing challenges, particularly the retirement plans of current caretakers, making the specialized care at the remote facility unsustainable. This transfer is part of a larger effort, which began in 2015, to stop the invasive use of chimpanzees in research.

Groups like the Humane Society have been instrumental in advocating for the chimps' relocation. Legal actions and massive public support have finally culminated in this positive outcome. Chimp Haven in Louisiana will receive the animals, extending capacity to ensure their future well-being is secured.

(With inputs from agencies.)