Monkey World

Monkey World is a 65-acre ape and monkey sanctuary near Wool in Dorset. It sits in open parkland with wooded areas and play structures for the animals. The centre rescues primates from abuse, smuggling and the pet trade across the world. It houses the largest group of chimpanzees outside Africa and Europe’s only orangutan crèche. Orangutans, gibbons, lemurs and many monkey species live here in social groups. The park also runs the Dao Tien Rescue Centre in Vietnam to protect endangered primates. The sanctuary was founded in 1987 by Jim Cronin with help from Jeremy Keeling and his wife Alison Cronin. It began with rescued chimpanzees used as beach props and now cares for hundreds of primates. Famous rescues include 88 capuchins from a Chilean lab and orangutans from South Africa and Spain. The centre works with governments to stop illegal smuggling and has featured in TV series like Monkey Life. Jim Cronin received the Jane Goodall Award for his work before his death in 2007. Visitors walk paths between spacious enclosures where chimpanzees, orangutans and gibbons climb ropes and logs. The orangutan crèche raises orphaned youngsters before they join older groups. Signs explain each species’ rescue story and the threats they face. Woodland trails lead to viewing platforms over grassy meadows where lemurs and monkeys forage. Families watch the animals interact while staff give talks on conservation. The peaceful Dorset setting makes a strong contrast to the rescued primates’ past lives.