Save the Chimps uses drone to feed ape during Florida floods
Save the Chimps delivered food to a trapped chimpanzee by drone on Saturday after heavy rain flooded its Fort Pierce property.
Drone delivers food to isolated chimp
Heavy rainstorms soaked southeast Florida from Sunday through Tuesday and submerged internal roads at the sanctuary. Canals overflowed and cut off access to a 38-year-old chimpanzee named Kaleb who remained in an outdoor area. Staffers used a delivery drone to bring him food and blankets until he moved to safer ground. The organization also used trucks, a tractor, and a maintenance worker's personal vehicle for other deliveries.
Floodwaters block normal transport routes
Facilities director Mark Yohannan stated that canals overflowed and submerged the internal roads normally used to deliver 3,000 pounds of chimp food per day. A high-clearance swamp buggy helped initially but soon broke down while trying to reach the isolated areas. CEO Ana Paula Tavares confirmed that care houses stayed secure on high ground despite the severe weather conditions.
Staff appeal for public donations
After the flood, the group seeks public assistance to repair ruined structures and gear. One donor has agreed to match contributions received from the community to support these repair efforts. Save the Chimps was founded in 1997 and currently cares for nearly 350 chimps from various sources.
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