Some major changes have occurred in Dilley, Texas, home of API’s sanctuary for nonhuman primates. In addition to the appointment of Ned C. Buyukmihci, DVM to the position of Director, the haven also has a new name, and is now called the Animal Protection Institute Primate Sanctuary. Both of these changes reflect our commitment to providing the best possible care to the animals that live at the sanctuary.
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API chose to rename the sanctuary to better reflect its mission. Originally called The Texas Snow Monkey Sanctuary, the 186-acre facility provides refuge for a variety of species of nonhuman primates who were rescued from roadside zoos, retired from research laboratories, or were once kept as exotic “pets.” More than 400 snow monkeys, vervets, and baboons live at the sanctuary in free-range enclosures, with minimal human interference
The sanctuary, which had existed in various forms in the U.S. since 1972, became a division of API in 2000. Ned Buyukmihci, known to most as “Dr. Ned,” took over as Sanctuary Director in August 2003; he joins API after decades of experience in animal care and advocacy. Dr. Ned leads a team of staff, interns, and volunteers dedicated to improving the lives of the sanctuary’s residents. We’re thrilled to have him on board.
The API Primate Sanctuary has ambitious plans for the future. Keep an eye out for announcements about improved facilities, expanded animal care and rehabilitation programs, and the arrival of new sanctuary residents.