Just outside of Shreveport lies what is perhaps one of the most incredible hidden gems in Louisiana, and that’s Chimp Haven. This chimpanzee sanctuary is home to more than 250 chimpanzees, most of which are retired from biomedical research. Chimp Haven is closed to the public, but a few rimes times a year, they open their doors and allow you to view these beautiful animals during one of their Discovery Days. 

You’ll find Chimp Haven in the unincorporated community of Keithville, Louisiana, which is just outside of Shreveport.
TX Traveler/Google
Established in 1995 in response to a need for long term chimpanzee care, Chimp Haven has grown considerably since its humble beginnings almost 25 years ago.
In the 1980s, the United States government launched an intensive breeding program for chimpanzees.
Chimp Haven/Facebook
Because chimpanzees are more closely related to humans than any other species, they were intended to be research subjects for HIV and hepatitis studies. When newer technology developed, the need for chimpanzees in relation to human disease research declined in the 1990s.
As more and more laws were established to protect these beautiful creatures, a need for a forever home was needed.
James Peck/Google
These chimps can’t be released into the wild, and in 2000, Caddo Parish provided 200 acres of land to build Chimp Haven.
Chimp Haven is home to more than 270 chimpanzees.
Chimp Haven/Facebook
The first two chimps, Rita and Teresa, came to the sanctuary in 2005 and ever since then, they’ve been steadily increasing their numbers.

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At Chimp Haven, the chimpanzees get to live out their days surrounded by 200 acres of beautiful forested land.
Chimp Haven/Facebook
More than 40 employees provide care for the chimps including everything from veterinary care to grounds maintenance.
And these little guys are truly living their best life.
Chimp Haven/Facebook
Free to roam wherever they please, or just sit back and relax like this fella.
It's quite impressive.
Chimp Haven/Facebook
These chimps are living in a paradise.
Each chimp has its own unique personality.
Chimp Haven/Facebook
During their Discovery Days, you’ll get the chance to see them.
A few times a year, Chimp Haven opens its doors to the public.
Chimp Haven/Facebook
During their Discovery Days, you’ll be able to observe the chimps in their natural habitat, learn about chimpanzee behavior and care, and learn about their lives at the sanctuary.

For more information, be sure to check out their website and follow them on Facebook.

Are you planning on attending the next Discovery Day at Chimp Haven in Louisiana? Let us know in the comments below!

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Featured Addresses
Chimp Haven, Inc., 13600 Chimpanzee Pl, Keithville, LA 71047, USA