Born 1988 in a laboratory. Actual birthday: July 19th
When Wildlife Waystation closed in 2019, Chimpanzee Sanctuary Northwest continued our planned expansion to make a home for another group of chimpanzees in need. Gordo arrived with the rest of the “Lucky Six” on June 26, 2021.
Gordo was born at the Laboratory for Experimental Medicine and Surgery in Primates (LEMSIP). His records say that his mother was Andrea and his father was Les. That means he is a half sibling to Dora among many other chimpanzees at other sanctuaries. He is also a full sibling to a set of twins, Amber and Alyse. Alyse passed away at Wildlife Waystation in 2022 and Amber now lives at Chimp Haven, a sanctuary in Louisiana.
When LEMSIP closed in 1996, Gordo went to Wildlife Waystation along with over 30 other chimpanzees.
Gordo was pretty aloof with the humans when he arrived at his new sanctuary home, but he has really opened up and plays games of chase with his caregivers–especially first thing in the morning. He especially enjoys when his human friends wear costumes and masks. He likes to spit mouthfuls of water, both in play and possibly to put us humans in our place. We have all been surprised at Gordo’s immediate ease with newcomer George and look forward to seeing their friendship continue.
Become Gordo’s Pal today! Gordo currently has 8 Pals!
