Primate Rescue Center, Primate sanctuary in Wilmore, Kentucky, United States
The Primate Rescue Center is a sanctuary situated on about 30 acres near Wilmore with specially designed enclosures for chimpanzees and various monkey species. The facilities include both indoor and outdoor areas that replicate the natural habitats these animals need.
The facility was established in 1987 after its founders acquired a macaque and recognized the need for a refuge for privately owned primates. This realization led them to create a safe home for abandoned and mistreated animals.
The center works with local communities to raise awareness about primate conservation and protection. Visitors can observe how the animals live in large, naturalistic enclosures that reflect their social behaviors.
The site is accessible on foot with marked pathways throughout the grounds, allowing visitors to safely view the enclosures. It is best to arrive early in the day when the animals are most active and to wear comfortable walking shoes.
The facility rescues chimpanzees and monkeys from laboratories and circuses, where many experience normal social behavior for the first time in their lives. Watching this transformation unfold offers visitors a meaningful glimpse into how these animals heal and rebuild trust.
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