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SYLMAR (CNS) - Eight chimpanzees that were living in the now-closed Wildlife Waystation wild animal sanctuary in Sylmar have been moved to the Center for Great Apes in Florida, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife announced today.
The animals were among nearly 500 wild animals, including 42 chimpanzees, that were left in need of homes when the Wildlife Waystation closed in August 2019.
Wildlife Waystation's board of directors voted to surrender its state operating permit following insurmountable costs that arose due to damage caused by the 2017 Creek Fire and flooding in early 2019.
According to CDFW, of the original 42 chimps at the Wildlife Waystation, 24 have been permanently placed at permitted facilities, but 18 remain at the Wildlife Waystation waiting to be moved. The North American Primate Sanctuary Alliance is continuing fundraising efforts to help relocate the remaining chimps.
Donations can be made at www.chimpsinneed.org.
The Waystation was originally incorporated in 1976 and served as a sanctuary for animals including tigers, lions and chimpanzees. Operators said the facilities assisted more than 77,000 animals during its existence, including wolves, coyotes, camels, hyenas, reptiles and leopards.
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