He was the darling of the age back in the ’70′s, thought to be “The Missing Link.”  Purportedly part-human and part-chimpanzee, Oliver could walk upright, and reportedly watched television with his owner–while smoking cigars!

Unfortunately for Oliver, his seemingly human abilities drew the attention of scientists, who subjected him to years of testing.  Left blind and arthritic, Oliver was eventually released to an animal sanctuary supported by Friends of Animals.

Project Oliver is an online photo series about Oliver’s life, and the efforts by the Primarily Primates sanctuary to build a new home for him.  Oliver’s new habitat (See illustration below) will have a grass area beneath various climbing structures and other elements suitable for a chimpanzee.  Tunnels from other habitats would enable different groups of chimpanzees to take turns enjoying this new environment.  For many of them, including Oliver, this will be the first time in years that they have been able to walk on grass.

Project Oliver was also created to raise awareness and compassion towards animals who are cast-offs from the biomedical, entertainment and  pet industries.  At Primarily Primates, they have found a loving and caring home.

Check out this heartwarming and captivating film by Andy Cockrum.  It documents how Joshua, an amazing Eagle Scout, designed and built new enrichment features for Oliver’s home at Primarily Primates.

I know how deeply you care about the planet.  As a board member of Friends of Animals and Primarily Primates, I have arranged for you to become a friend of Oliver and the Sanctuary.  When you order this $20 Ecco Bella Mascara, in brown or black, you will receive a one-year membership in both Primarily Primates and Friends of Animals  (A total value of $65.95.)  You’ll love it!