Blog | Gulf Coast Primate R

More Than a Sanctuary: How Trauma, Healing, and Hope Built Gulf Coast Primate Sanctuary

People often ask me why I started Gulf Coast Primate Sanctuary. Most people expect me to talk about monkeys. The truth is, the sanctuary began long before the first enclosure was ever built. It began with trauma. A Night That Changed Everything In 1997, while serving in the United States Air Force, I was the victim of a violent military sexual assault while stationed in England. It was my last night before returning to the United States. I attended what was supposed to be a c

April Stewart

Jul 126 min read

Meet Drogo: The Remarkable Genet of Gulf Coast Primate Sanctuary

When people visit Gulf Coast Primate Sanctuary, they expect to see monkeys. What many don’t expect is to meet Drogo, our 11-year-old common genet. With his spotted coat, long ringed tail, oversized ears, and graceful movements, Drogo often leaves visitors asking, “What is he?” His story is one of resilience, compassion, and second chances—and it also serves as an important reminder that wild animals belong in the wild, not in our homes. What Is a Genet? Although they’re often

April Stewart

Jul 84 min read

Surrendering a Monkey Isn’t Giving Up — It’s Choosing What’s Best

At Gulf Coast Primate Sanctuary , we receive calls almost daily from people who love their monkeys deeply… but are overwhelmed. If you are facing the decision to surrender your monkey, we want you to hear this clearly: Choosing a sanctuary is not failure. It is an act of love. Monkeys Change — A Lot — As They Grow Up When most people first bring home a baby monkey, they experience: • A tiny, dependent infant • Bottle feedings • Clinging and cuddling • Playfulness and curiosit

April Stewart

Mar 33 min read

Work Day at The Sanctuary!

We had a great turnout for our First Spring work day of 2026! One volunteer even drove over 2 hours to be with us today!! The amount of work accomplished was incredible. Weeks worth of work done in one afternoon. We were all sore and worn out by the end of the 3 hour block of time, but completely amazed too. New friends were made. Old friends were reunited and the monkeys got spoiled by everyone. We are getting ready for our new residents coming in and everyone is exci

April Stewart

Mar 31 min read