A very young chimpanzee, victim of illegal trade and neglect, gets a new start at AAP. The animal, estimated to be less than four years old, was found by the Italian Carabinieri in shocking conditions at a house in Sicily.
Chimpanzee Giggi, who can be considered a toddler given his age, was tethered to a two-metre-long chain which had cut deep into his groin and caused very serious injury. This limited movement also led to stereotypical and unnatural behaviour, which is a clear sign of prolonged stress and suffering.
Alone on a chain
“I had hoped that I would no longer encounter such harrowing stories by 2026,” said Eva Schippers, our Head of Rescue and Rehabilitation and present at the transfer. “A chimpanzee belongs in a social group, not alone on a chain in someone’s garden. This is especially true at such a young age, when the mother is still so desperately needed. The suffering that Giggi must have endured is almost unimaginable.”
Illegal trade and danger to humans and animals
In Italy, chimpanzees are classified as dangerous to public health and safety and are given the highest level of protection under the CITES convention.
The previous owner stated that he had purchased the animal on the black market in Malta and brought it into Italy without a permit. This case highlights the ongoing demand for exotic pets and the urgent need for legislation and enforcement across Europe to put an end to this suffering.
Although the commercial trade in chimpanzees is prohibited under CITES, they can still be kept as pets in some countries. This is why AAP is committed to positive lists that prioritise animal welfare and prevent primates and many other wild animal species from ending up with people who cannot provide them with proper care.
International cooperation
Following the discovery, AAP was informed of the situation by its contacts at the CITES Carabinieri Department in Rome. While Giggi was temporarily housed at the Bioparco di Roma zoo, the AAP team drew up a plan for his transport, legal processing and intensive care.
A team of six professionals was waiting for him upon his arrival at the rescue centre in Almere earlier this week. They provide Giggi with all-day care and attention, ensuring he feels safe and not alone. AAP is appealing to its donors to fund this intensive care. Considerable resources are required for specialist veterinary care, quarantine and behavioural rehabilitation. “To give this young chimpanzee a chance at a life without fear, chains or pain, we need the support of our donors,” says Eva Schippers.
Options are being studied within and outside AAP to introduce Giggi to a suitable foster mother after his three-month quarantine.
