Primates are some of the most intelligent animals in the world. Yet they are also some of the most abused. 

It is incredible to think that animals such as orangutans and gorillas are still locked up in cages, just so we can see them. We know ALL animals suffer in captivity, but there is something about seeing animals in cages whom are so close to ourselves that should resonate with us and make us say – enough is enough!

This International Primate Day we are shining a light on the individuals held captive in zoos across the UK and Ireland. Apes, monkeys, lemurs and other primates continue to suffer for human entertainment. This is not conservation, this is exploitation.

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Mujur, a 19 year old orangutan held captive at Dublin Zoo, has given birth three times, and every time tragedy has occurred. Mujur's first two babies sadly died; one from being unable to feed from her properly, and one dying from their injuries after she beat them in utter desperation. These devastating losses happened because Mujur has grown up in an unnatural environment, with no role models. She has never learned to be a mother, or been offered the right support. Yet despite this sad history, Mujur recently gave birth again. This time, the zoo removed her baby to send him to another zoo. Why was Mujur given the opportunity to breed again when so much turmoil has already taken place? Why is the zoo allowing this terrible suffering to continue?

The stress of captivity and the lack of social structure will have played a huge part in these tragic events, all under the guise of conservation for animals who will never make it to the wild. 

Lemurs are another primate very commonly seen within zoos. In our recent investigations into Cumbria Safari Zoo (AKA South Lakes Zoo), we documented a litany of issues with the lemurs held captive there. Investigators noted broken tails, fingers, and gashes to their bodies, as well as babies being dropped by their parents and dying on a cold concrete floor. Overcrowding and overbreeding issues will be a real factor in all of this.

There are so many examples of cruelty to primates in captivity across the UK and Ireland. The only way to fight for them is to share their stories and advocate for their freedom. 

We urgently need you to speak out and stand up as an ally for animals, and we need you on our team to change the world for the better. So please, will you join us as one of our new Freedom Champions?

By joining us as a Freedom Champion and making a monthly donation, you will help to expose the dark side of captivity that zoos don’t want the world to see. You will play a critical role in stopping this cruelty.

Your amazing gift will power:

  1. INVESTIGATION - You will fuel undercover investigations and groundbreaking research, ensuring that animals' suffering is no longer hidden

  2. EDUCATION - You will drive impactful, wide-reaching campaigns and outreach work that is vital to ending the cruelty of captivity

  3. PROTECTION - You will make sure we can be there for every animal who needs us, and keep us fighting for the freedoms they so deserve

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Plus, over the next two weeks, 1st - 15th September 2024, when you sign up to a monthly gift, you will not only receive our Freedom Champion sign-up pack*, but you will also receive a cute eco orangutan toy, as an extra special thank you!

Animals should not be forced to live like this. You can help end this cruelty! Join us today and help fight for the freedom of ALL animals.

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Thank you.

*If you do not wish to receive the Freedom Champion sign-up pack, please indicate so when signing up on the next page, just under Gift Aid.