Suncoast Primate Sanctuary

09/11/2026

It’s a Fun Fact Friday!

Meet Mr Sandman a/k/a Mr. Big. He is one of two Sulcata Tortoises currently living here at the sanctuary.

Sandman, as he is affectionately know to his caregivers, enjoys roaming the small primates’ field after hours and on days we are closed to the public.

Some of his favorite foods are romaine lettuce, broccoli sprouts and fresh hibiscus flowers which are harvested from the beautiful plants decorating the outside of his enclosure.

Earlier this year, volunteer Tommy constructed for Mr. Sandman his own "dry carwash" so he could scratch an itch or simply clean the dirt off his shell.

Be sure to stop by the small primate area of the sanctuary and see Mr. Sandman.

09/07/2026

A little Labor Day celebration fit for the cutest little workers! 🇺🇸🐒❤️ These monkeys worked hard all year, so they definitely deserve a berry special treat day! 🍓🫐🥒

09/07/2026

It’s a Musical Monday for Labor Day!

Musical Enrichment at the sanctuary is not just for the primates, our caregivers benefit from it too!

Chimpanzee Magillan and caregiver Suzanne are enjoying some dancing and exercise to one of Magillan's favorite songs "Blinding Lights" by The Weeknd.

Human-to-chimp dance enrichment builds strong social bonds, stimulates curiosity, and elicits playful behaviors from chimpanzees.

09/07/2026

Not sure how to spend your Labor Day? Come visit our animals before you fire up the grill! We are open from 10 AM to 4 PM!

09/05/2026

Not sure how to spend your Labor Day holiday? Come visit the primates and friends!! we are open 10 AM to 4 PM on Monday!

09/04/2026

it's a Fun Fact Friday!

Meet Cheeky, the only Bonnet Macaque here at the sanctuary.

Cheeky enjoys sitting in his swing where he can see most of the small primate area. Cheeky also likes drinking from the hose and water play with his red ball.

Cheeky has a big appetite and is always up for seconds at lunchtime. A few of his favorite foods are corn on the cob, broccoli, tomatoes and blueberries.

Fun Fact: The Bonnet Macaque gets its name from a distinct parting of hair on its head that looks like a cap or bonnet.

During your next visit, stop by and visit Cheeky, and his roommate Christian, in the small primate area of the sanctuary.

08/31/2026

It’s a Musical Monday at SPS!

At our sanctuary, musical enrichment has become a vibrant cornerstone of daily life, offering deep auditory and sensory stimulation that brings unexpected joy to our residents and caregivers.

Give Merlin (Macaw) a track with a strong groove—especially "Can't Stop the Feeling" by Justin Timberlake —and his true personality shines.

Beyond the entertainment, these musical sessions serve a therapeutic purpose. Studies have shown that music lowers cortisol levels in rescued animals, and playing together builds a deep sense of trust between caregivers and sanctuary residents who may have come from difficult backgrounds.

08/30/2026

08/30/2026

Several of our volunteers checked out the grand opening today!!