141. Where Primates Go to Heal with Primatologist Andy Gray

Episode Two of Series 16: The Captivity Question- Transcript (linked)Primatologist, Andy Gray explains how primate sanctuaries exist to provide lifelong, species‑appropriate care—especially social companionship—for primates who often arrive with trauma, abnormal behaviors, or complex medical needs. She describes the growing demand for sanctuary placement driven by illegal pet trade, confiscations, and increased awareness, alongside the emotional and logistical challenges sanctuaries and staff face. She also highlights the importance of collaboration between sanctuaries and zoos, the rise of operant conditioning for stress‑free veterinary care, and the urgent need for legislation like the Captive Primate Safety Act.Guest Bio: Amanda “Andy” Gray is the Director of NAPSA and has worked with primates since 2008, beginning as a volunteer at Chimpanzee Sanctuary Northwest and the Chimpanzee and Human Communication Institute while studying Primate Behavior, Ecology, and Anthropology at Central Washington University. She earned her Master’s in Primate Conservation at Oxford Brookes University, conducting research on slow lorises affected by the illegal pet trade, and later worked as a caregiver and fundraiser at several NAPSA member sanctuaries, including Save the Chimps. Most recently, she served as Program Manager for Second Chance Chimpanzee Refuge Liberia, overseeing operations, strategy, and development; she now lives in Southern California with her family and two rescue dogs.Book Recommendations: Holidays on Ice by David SedarisRelated Links:WILDLIFE CONFISCATION NETWORKCaptive Primate Safety Act- 2008Great Ape Heart ProjectEp 133. Speaking Across SpeciesEp 124 What Can A Matriarchal Society Teach UsEp 93. Human Relevant TestingMentioned in this episode:PHAIR Conference CoverageNew Minis-series coming Summer 2026