Primate Pals

Community partnership

HEVA Lab & Primate Pals

Since 2023, HEVA Lab members have supported the Primate Rescue Center in Nicholasville, Kentucky, by “adopting” a non-human primate. The center provides sanctuary to non-human primates rescued from the illegal wildlife trade, retirees of former research laboratories or the entertainment industry, as well as zoos. The Primate Rescue Center also provides public education on the issues and dangers of the breeder/dealer cycle within the primate trade.

Donald

Donald, a chimpanzee adopted by HEVA Lab through the Primate Rescue Center

Chimpanzee · Est. born 1974 (est. age ~52)

♥ Adopted January 2026

After Jenny's passing, the HEVA lab voted to adopt Donald the chimpanzee as the lab's second non-human primate representative. While the race for the next representative was close, lab members were most struck by his described demeanor as a "gentleman" and peace-loving despite being one of the dominant males.

Full biography
Read Donald’s full story on the Primate Rescue Center website →

Jenny 1971–2025

Jenny, a Siamang gibbon adopted by HEVA Lab through the Primate Rescue Center

Siamang gibbon · Age 54

♥ Adopted January 2025  •  Passed April 18, 2025

The HEVA Lab adopted Jenny, a Siamang gibbon, in January 2025. Sadly, Jenny passed away just a few months later on the morning of April 18, 2025, at the age of 54.

Memoriam & biography
Read Jenny’s full story on the Primate Rescue Center website →