Monkey Sanctuary, Primate sanctuary in Looe, England
The Monkey Sanctuary is a primate rescue center in Looe, Cornwall, set on grounds that look out over the coast. It houses rescued woolly monkeys, capuchins, and Barbary macaques in garden enclosures designed to reflect their natural living conditions.
Leonard Williams founded the sanctuary in 1964 with a focus on protecting South American woolly monkeys. Over time, it grew to take in other rescued primate species as well.
The sanctuary is known for teaching visitors why monkeys should not be kept as pets, using the animals themselves as living examples. Watching the woolly monkeys and capuchins move through their garden enclosures makes that message easy to understand.
The site includes Murrayton House with a shop, a cafeteria, wildlife gardens, and a play area for children. Paths are clearly marked and parking is available on the grounds, making it easy to arrive by car.
The sanctuary was the first wildlife center in Europe to receive accreditation from the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries. That status was granted based on strict animal welfare standards that the center itself helped to develop.
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