Illegally Kept As a Pet and Dressed in Clothes!

Tic was purchased from the poacher who killed his family by a man who wanted a "toy" for his children. For two years, he was illegally kept as a pet. Tic found rescue in February of 2005 when In Defense of Animals - Africa's Dr. Sheri Speede discovered him on a car roof, dressed in human baby clothes for people's amusement.

Tic lived in a small cage on the porch of the man’s house and was occasionally allowed inside to play with the children. Sheri advised him that Tic would become stronger, larger and play too rough. She convinced the man to relinquish him without the involvement of authorities. Today our policy is to always involve law enforcement authorities in these cases.

Although the family wasn't intentionally abusive, living with humans and not with other chimpanzees creates serious identity problems. Learning to adjust to life with other chimpanzees can be challenging for the orphans of Sanaga-Yong Rescue. The first few weeks at the sanctuary, Tic saw and heard other chimpanzees for the first time since his capture as an infant. He was soon integrated with chimpanzee babies Mintak and Johnny, but had some difficulty transitioning from his life with humans.

Today, age 14, Tic still lives with friends, Mintak and Johnny, plus eleven other chimpanzees. During the last couple of years, his preference for starchier foods like yams has led to weight gain, he's currently on a diet of more fresh veggies and less starchy foods.

You can help support our critical work with chimpanzees here.

Photo courtesy of Director Sheri Speede