ZooKentucky, US

Primate Rescue Center

The Primate Rescue Center in Kentucky offers a serene, lifelong sanctuary for rescued primates.

About

The Primate Rescue Center in Kentucky offers a serene, lifelong sanctuary for rescued primates. This non-profit organization provides a safe haven for monkeys and apes, many of whom have endured traumatic pasts in the exotic pet trade, laboratories, or entertainment industries. Visitors, primarily through exclusive member events, witness firsthand the dedicated care and naturalistic environments designed to promote the well-being of its diverse primate residents. The center, nestled on 30 acres in Wilmore, Kentucky, prioritizes the animals' peace and privacy, making every interaction a unique glimpse into their rehabilitated lives. Unlike a traditional zoo, the Primate Rescue Center is a true sanctuary, focusing on the specialized needs of its residents, which include a troop of chimpanzees and various monkey species from around the world. The state-of-the-art chimpanzee enclosure and custom indoor/outdoor monkey habitats with heated houses ensure comfort and enrichment, allowing the primates to thrive. The center's mission extends beyond care to advocacy, working to end the private primate trade and educate the public on the plight of these intelligent animals. A visit, though limited to special occasions, offers a profound educational experience, highlighting the importance of primate welfare and conservation. Guests can observe chimpanzees like Isaac, who was rescued from a laboratory, and numerous monkey species like capuchins, macaques, and spider monkeys enjoying their peaceful existence. The facility's commitment to creating a stress-free environment means that direct, close-up interactions are balanced with the animals' need for space, making it a poignant and respectful encounter with these magnificent creatures. Be ready to snap and learn! Get the Snappit app to identify any nature species you find here.

The Primate Rescue Center's story began in the late 1980s with a seemingly simple purchase. Co-founder Clay Miller bought a long-tailed macaque named Gizmo for his future wife, April Truitt, as a pet. Through their experience with Gizmo, they quickly realized that monkeys do not make suitable household pets and discovered a significant need for homes for other unwanted, neglected, or abused primates. From these accidental beginnings, Truitt and Miller started taking in more primates, expanding their facilities to accommodate the growing number of rescues from various situations, including the exotic pet trade, research laboratories, and confiscated illegal pets. The center formally established itself as a non-profit organization, growing into a nationally respected sanctuary committed to providing lifetime care and advocating for primate welfare.

What to do here

During a member event or private tour, guests can observe the primates interacting in their naturalistic enclosures, learn about their individual rescue stories, and understand the sanctuary's commitment to their lifetime care. Educational presentations often highlight the challenges primates face in captivity and the center's advocacy efforts.

Seasonal info

The annual Member Event's spring timing allows for pleasant weather, which often means the primates are more active outdoors. Animal activity can vary based on individual preferences and the day's conditions.

Accessibility

While specific details on accessibility for the general grounds are not extensively published given the limited public access, the chimpanzee enclosure features an "enclosed tunnel" allowing movement, and the overall design focuses on the animals' well-being. It is recommended to contact the center directly for specific accessibility concerns if planning to attend a member event or private tour.

Plan your visit

Suggested duration: For the annual Member Event, visitors can typically expect an experience lasting a few hours, allowing ample time to observe the primates in their habitats and learn about the sanctuary's work. Private tours, if offered through specific membership levels, would also likely be a few hours in duration.
Best time to visit: The Primate Rescue Center is not open to the general public for daily visits. The primary opportunity to visit is by attending their annual Members-Only Event, typically held each spring. Becoming a member provides an invitation to this exclusive event. Higher-tier memberships may also include private sanctuary tours for a limited number of guests.
Location: Kentucky, US
Species in this guide: 9

Best for

Animal Welfare AdvocatesConservation EnthusiastsMembers & SupportersEducational Groups (limited Access)

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Don't miss

Chimpanzee Enclosure

A state-of-the-art habitat designed for enrichment and comfort, allowing the chimpanzees to move between spacious outdoor areas and temperature-controlled indoor playrooms via tunnels.

Monkey Enclosures

Ten custom indoor/outdoor habitats with heated houses, tailored to meet the needs of diverse monkey species.

Diverse Primate Residents

The chance to observe a wide array of rescued primates, including chimpanzees, capuchin monkeys, various macaque species, spider monkeys, vervet monkeys, and a siamang gibbon.

Wildlife you might spot

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

Chimpanzee

Capuchin Monkey

Spider Monkey

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Good to know before you go

Become a Member

The primary way to experience the Primate Rescue Center is by becoming a member, which includes an invitation to their annual Member Event.

Check Membership Tiers

Explore different membership levels, as some may offer additional benefits like private tours.

Dress Comfortably

If attending an event, wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for outdoor viewing areas.

Bring Binoculars

While primates will be visible, binoculars can enhance your viewing experience, especially for those who prefer to stay further back.

Respect the Animals

Remember it's a sanctuary, not a zoo. Maintain a respectful distance and follow any guidelines provided by staff to ensure the well-being of the animals.

Learn Their Stories

Take the time to read about the individual primates and their rescue stories, which provides a deeper appreciation for the sanctuary's work.

Frequently asked questions

: No, the Primate Rescue Center is not open to the general public for daily visits. The center prioritizes providing a stress-free environment for its rescued primates and therefore limits public access. However, they do host an exclusive annual Member Event each spring for their supporters.
: The Primate Rescue Center is home to over 50 primates, including a troop of chimpanzees (currently 8-11 individuals) and a diverse range of monkey species. These include capuchins, long-tailed macaques, rhesus macaques, Japanese macaques, spider monkeys, vervet monkeys, crested black macaques, pigtail macaques, and a siamang gibbon.
: The Primate Rescue Center is a non-profit organization that relies entirely on private donations, as it receives no government funding. You can support their mission by becoming a member, sponsoring a primate through their "Primate Pals" program, making a direct donation, or volunteering. Membership often grants you an invitation to their annual Member Event.