Chimpanzees and retirement.

Area of Science:

• Primate research and welfare
• Animal conservation and ethics

Background:

• Laboratories in the United States face a significant chimpanzee housing crisis.
• Increased captive births from the National Chimpanzee Breeding and Research Program (1986) contribute to the surplus population.
• Diminished use of chimpanzees in research exacerbates the housing issue.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the growing need for retirement options for chimpanzees.
• To discuss the current housing crisis faced by chimpanzee research facilities.
• To explore the concept of 'retirement' for surplus chimpanzees.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on chimpanzee sanctuaries and housing discussions.
• Analysis of factors contributing to the surplus chimpanzee population.
• Examination of the implications of the National Chimpanzee Breeding and Research Program.

Main Results:

• A substantial population of chimpanzees is considered surplus to research demand.
• Chimpanzees from both laboratory and private sectors are candidates for retirement.
• The current situation necessitates a discussion on long-term care and sanctuary options.

Conclusions:

• The retirement of chimpanzees is a pressing issue requiring immediate attention.
• Sanctuaries are emerging as a critical solution for housing surplus chimpanzees.
• Ethical considerations for the long-term care of retired research chimpanzees are paramount.