On the evening of October 22, 2024, the serene shores of Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary welcomed a new arrival, bringing a moment of joy and excitement to the entire sanctuary team.
Sophie, one of the sanctuary’s most beloved chimpanzees, gave birth to a healthy baby after months of anticipation and dedicated care from her caregivers. Now, nearly three weeks old, the infant is beginning to show signs of curiosity, infusing new energy into the sanctuary.
During her pregnancy, Sophie was kept indoors for over two months to ensure she received the privacy and focused care necessary for a safe delivery. While this decision temporarily limited her outdoor freedom, it proved essential in providing a secure environment for both her and her baby.
Sophie’s remarkable devotion and attentiveness to her newborn have already made the arrival of the baby a rewarding experience for everyone involved.
Dr. Joshua Rukundo, the Executive Director of the Chimpanzee Trust, expressed his joy at the new arrival of a new member to the family.
“This birth is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our team. We have taken special care to ensure that both Sophie and her baby are given the best possible start. These early moments are incredibly important, and we’re thrilled to see the bond between mother and child flourish. We look forward to watching this little one grow and eventually join the rest of the chimpanzee community.”
While the sanctuary’s decision to keep Sophie indoors has been instrumental in safeguarding her and her baby’s health, it comes with the challenge of delayed social interaction with other members of the chimpanzee family.
However, these first few weeks are about bonding, comfort, and security—a foundation that will be crucial as the baby begins its journey of learning and exploring the world under Sophie’s watchful eye.
Founded in 1998, the Sanctuary currently houses 52 chimpanzees. ( All photos are from the Trust)
