Monkey Sanctuary, Primate sanctuary in Looe, England
The Monkey Sanctuary is a primate refuge in Looe overlooking the Cornish coast. The site spreads across spacious gardens with natural enclosures for rescued woolly monkeys, capuchins, and Barbary macaques, positioned to take advantage of sea views.
Leonard Williams founded the Monkey Sanctuary in 1964 as a cooperative focused on protecting South American woolly monkeys. The facility grew into a recognized rehabilitation center for rescued primates of multiple species.
The sanctuary educates 30,000 annual visitors about primate welfare, conservation efforts, and the consequences of keeping monkeys as domestic pets.
The visit includes Murrayton House with a shop, cafeteria, wildlife gardens, and a play area for children. Parking is available on the grounds, and the site is accessible via clearly marked pathways.
The facility holds international accreditation from the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries and was the first European wildlife center to receive this distinction. This recognition marks its leadership in setting standards for animal welfare and conservation across the continent.
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