Rescue Monkeys from Lives of Abuse

Just as 2025 was coming to an end, we received a call from local authorities asking if we could take in three baby baboons. The trio, who were between 6 and 9 months old, had been found at the home of an illegal breeder and were confiscated. If it had not been for the seizure, the three babies would likely now be living miserable lives in the pet trade.

But Mari, Ophelia, and Peach – named by sanctuary staff – were instead rescued and brought into the care of the Born Free USA Primate Sanctuary. We had rescued three other baboons shortly before the three babies arrived – Izzy, Dee Dee, and Littlefoot. All three came from a laboratory. Littlefoot is Dee Dee’s daughter and, at that time, was the youngest monkey at the sanctuary at just a year old. When we were asked to take the three babies, it presented a great opportunity for Littlefoot to have monkeys of her own age to grow up with, and we knew we already had two adult females used to caring for a baby. It seems that the stars aligned to bring these monkeys together!

Since arrival, Mari, Ophelia, and Peach have settled in beautifully and very quickly bonded with Littlefoot, who was delighted with her three new playmates. The four youngsters are inseparable as they run, climb, play, forage, and groom one another in their large open top enclosure. Dee Dee and Izzy have also welcomed the trio. We are so grateful to have been able to provide a caring home for life for the baboons and look forward to seeing them thrive in their new home.