Rescued Chimps Take Turns Hugging The Newest Orphan To Join Their Family

They gave him the sweetest welcome ❤️

A few months ago, this young orphaned chimp named Beckley was saved from the saddest fate by caretakers from Liberia Chimpanzee Rescue & Protection (LCRP). Having lost his parents to the illicit and deadly wildlife trade, Beckley had found himself without a friend in the world.

But now that’s all changed.

LCRP, described as “the first and only sanctuary in Liberia for all chimpanzees in need,” is a home and safe haven to more than 80 orphaned chimps — all rescued from heartbreaking circumstances in the West African nation.

Chimps like Beckley, however, need more than just dedicated care to grow into healthy maturity. They also need one another to truly thrive.

Recently, after a period of assessment and observation, Beckley was introduced to his new family in a protected patch of forest at LCRP where he and his new siblings can enjoy the lives that were nearly taken from them.

But though each orphaned chimpanzee's past is peppered with sadness and trauma, their instinct is still to love.

Upon Beckley's arrival, he was greeted by them with hugs:

According to LCRP, most of the rescued chimpanzees under their care aren't able to return to a fully wild life, but thanks to the organization's efforts, chimps like Beckley can continue to live, protected, in the forests in which they belong — rather than being lifelong victims of the illicit wildlife trade.

"Chimpanzees are not and should not be pets or forced to live with humans," LCRP writes. "The chimpanzee orphans at LCRP's sanctuary in West Africa are victims of the bushmeat and illegal pet trade. Their mothers were tragically killed by poachers and require around the clock care. Thanks to the dedicated caregivers and staff, the orphans are being rehabilitated so that they will be able to thrive with others in a natural and safe environment when they’re older."

To learn more about Liberia Chimpanzee Rescue, and to find out how you can help, visit their website here.