Latest news
Five Pig tailed macaques set to join Monkey Haven
We’re delighted to share the news that we will soon be welcoming five pig tailed macaques into our care.
This closely bonded group is currently residing at AAP Rescue Centre and is expected to arrive towards the end of May, where they will begin the next chapter of their lives here on the Isle of Wight.
A family given a second chance
Four members of the group, Cachuli, Pantoja, Chabelo and Paquirrin, were originally rescued from an unlicensed private zoo that was closed down by authorities. Following their rescue, they were transferred to AAP, where they have remained together as a family unit and received specialist care.
Keeping this family together has been vital to their wellbeing, and we are proud to be able to continue that here at Monkey Haven.
Meet the macaques
The troop has a well-established social structure:
- Cachuli is the alpha male and father to Chabelo and Paquirrin. He provides stability and leadership within the group.
- Pantoja, the alpha female, is the mother of the two younger macaques and plays a central role in maintaining harmony.
- Chabelo, the oldest sibling, is gentle and respectful, forming strong social bonds within the group.
- Paquirrin, the youngest, is already showing a confident and energetic personality and ranks just below the alpha male.
- Freya is the only non familial member of the group. She has integrated successfully and, although she is the lowest ranking individual, she is calm, respectful and shares a close bond with Chabelo.
Freya’s story
Freya’s background differs from the rest of the group. She is believed to have been confiscated while being transported illegally, highlighting the ongoing issues surrounding the illegal wildlife trade.
Looking ahead
The arrival of these five macaques marks an important step in Monkey Haven’s ongoing commitment to primate rescue and welfare. Our team is currently preparing their new habitat to ensure it meets their complex social and environmental needs. Every effort is being made to provide a safe, enriching and permanent home where they can thrive.
We look forward to sharing more updates as their arrival approaches and introducing you to each individual in more detail.
Celebrating 100 years of Attenborough: Special offer
On the 8th, 9th & 10th of May join us to celebrate 100 Years of David Attenborough! 🎉
Kids entry is just £1*
What’s going on:
- Fun photo prop opportunities
- Delicious cakes to celebrate 100 years!
- Attenborough-inspired activities & lots more
- A fun weekend for the whole family, come and honour a true legend of the natural world!
Meet our amazing primates at the Island’s award-winning rescue centre this May half term
Swing by for an unforgettable day out at the Isle of Wight’s award-winning primate rescue centre, home to some of the world’s most fascinating and endangered monkeys.
Meet the world’s oldest captive Javan langur, our rescued critically endangered cotton-top tamarins, and our famous singing gibbons. You’ll also get to know our mischievous rhesus macaques, who never fail to entertain their playful antics as we celebrate Macaque Week.
There’s something for everyone, including engaging keeper talks, a free app, a children’s trail and activity booklet, a tearoom, and a gift shop. Plus, every ticket includes a free return visit within 7 days.
🌿 May Half Term & June Highlights
This May Half Term, we’re proud to launch our new conservation strategy, strengthening our commitment to protecting primates both at our sanctuary and in the wild.
Join us to learn more about the challenges these incredible animals face and how your visit helps support vital rescue and conservation work.
Don’t forget to keep an eye on our social media channels for an exciting new rescue story coming soon, be among the first to hear it.
Join us for some cracking Easter fun
Join us this Easter for a day full of family fun, creativity, and conservation! Plus you’ll meet some amazing rescue animals.
✨ Free Easter Trail
🎨 Easter Crafts
🌿 Conservation Promise Tree
🍰 Easter Treats in Xhabu’s Tearoom
🐒 Daily Keeper Talks
Mum’s go free on Mother’s Day weekend*
🌸 Treat your mum to a wild and wonderful Mother’s Day at Monkey Haven!
Join us on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th March, where mums go FREE with every full paying child (3–15 years).*
Enjoy fascinating keeper talks and learn all about the incredible primate mums in our care. Plus, pop into our tearoom for some delicious treats to make the day extra special!
To redeem the discount:
Add one Mother’s Day Ticket per full-paying child to your online booking.
Fab Feb half-term offer: 2-for-1 kids’ entry
Book online: 14 February – 22 February (inclusive)
Use code HTSPECIAL at the checkout
Join us when we open our doors for 2026 with lots of fab Feb half-term fun. 💖 Love Week 💖 is back, featuring our Love Heart Trail, plus you can hear all about the tales of bromance and family connections at the Keeper Talks. And we’ve got our usual stamper trail and kids’ play areas., all ready and waiting!
Our 2-for-1 kids’ offer is available online only.
Terms and conditions:
This offer is valid from 14th February to 22nd February inclusive only.
The promotion is online booking only and cannot be redeemed in person or by phone.
To redeem the offer, customers must enter the promotional code HTSPECIAL at checkout.
The offer provides one free child entry per one full-paying child entry.
Only one free child is permitted for each full-price paying child.
All children must be accompanied by a paying adult at all times while on site.
Adult admission is not included in this offer and must be purchased separately.
The promotion cannot be applied retroactively to bookings already made.
The offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other discounts, promotions, or offers.
The offer is subject to availability, and Monkey Haven reserves the right to withdraw or amend the promotion at any time.
Standard Monkey Haven admission rules and site policies apply.
Tickets purchased using this offer are non-transferable and non-refundable, unless otherwise stated in Monkey Haven’s general ticket policy.
🎃 Half-Term Halloween Fun at Monkey Haven!
18 October – 2 November 2025
All children’s tickets are just £5 when booked online using code MHHTSPECIAL at checkout. (Offer valid for visits between 18 October – 2 November)
Here’s what’s Happening…
PLUS
* Join us on 21 October for a free Recycled Paper Flower Workshop
* Celebrate World Gibbon Day on 24 October
👉 Use voucher code MHHTSPECIAL to claim your £5 children’s ticket!
Monkey Haven Mourns the Loss of Beloved Siamang, Xhabu
It is with profound sadness that Monkey Haven announces the passing of Xhabu, the sanctuary’s much-loved Siamang and one of its first primate rescues. Xhabu was 28 years old and passed away peacefully after 19 extraordinary years at Monkey Haven, leaving behind an irreplaceable void in the hearts of his animal carers, fellow gibbons, and countless visitors from around the world.
Xhabu arrived at Monkey Haven in 2006, just as the sanctuary was taking its first steps toward becoming an award winning rescue centre for primates and birds of prey. He was one of the earliest residents and quickly became a central figure in the sanctuary’s identity. With his powerful call echoing across the grounds and his gentle demeanour winning hearts daily, Xhabu was not only a favourite among staff but also a global ambassador for the Haven’s mission of care, compassion, and conservation.
“Xhabu was more than just an animal in our care – he was family,” said Don Walser, the founder of Monkey Haven. “His presence brought immense joy, comfort, and inspiration to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. He truly was the heart and soul of this sanctuary and he will be missed greatly.”
A Legacy of Love and Resilience
Xhabu’s story is one of resilience. He was re-homed at Monkey Haven with his nephew Bog, another Siamang, and they both thrived in the nurturing environment created by the dedicated team. Xhabu was born with disabilities, including stunted growth and being cross-eyed, yet he never let those challenges define him. Instead, he charmed and inspired all who met him with his courage, character, and the strength of his spirit.
Xhabu and Bog formed a friendship with two Müller’s gibbons – mother and daughter duo, Bono and Kajan – who lived in a home next door. They used to groom each other through the wire, displaying a rare affection that was as heartwarming as it was unusual. Given their bond, the sanctuary team decided to introduce them, and they quickly became the best of friends. This was a remarkable achievement, as Siamangs and Müller’s gibbons come from different parts of South East Asia and would never encounter each other in the wild. Their successful integration is a testament to the compassionate care provided at Monkey Haven, and the beautiful friendship that blossomed between them remains one of the sanctuary’s proudest accomplishments.
Over two decades, Xhabu formed close bonds with his animal carers and fellow gibbons, and became an icon of recovery, love, and second chances.
His powerful duet calls, often heard ringing out at dawn and dusk, became one of the sanctuary’s most cherished sounds. Visitors would often pause in awe, moved by the depth and beauty of his voice. For many, Xhabu’s call symbolised the spirit of Monkey Haven — a call for compassion, care, and a better world for animals in need.
In July 2023, Xhabu sadly suffered a stroke that left him facing significant health challenges. True to his resilient nature, he fought bravely through nearly two years of recovery, adapting to physical limitations while still engaging with his environment and animal carers. His care team adapted his living quarters, developed specialised routines and therapeutic enrichment to support his rehabilitation, and their tireless dedication helped Xhabu enjoy a peaceful, enriched life for several more years.
“Caring for Xhabu through his recovery was one of the most emotionally profound experiences of our careers,” said Lisa Simpkins, a long-time animal carer at Monkey Haven. “His courage and trust in us were humbling. He taught us so much about love, patience, and strength.”
Impact Beyond the Sanctuary
Xhabu’s influence extended far beyond the Isle of Wight. His photos, videos, and stories were shared across social media platforms, gaining followers and millions of views from around the world. He became a favourite subject for schoolchildren learning about endangered species, and his story was featured in numerous educational talks and conservation campaigns. Xhabu captured hearts on a global scale and helped inspire a deeper connection between people and primates.
Continuing the Mission
While Xhabu’s passing is a deeply emotional time for the team, the work of Monkey Haven continues. The sanctuary remains committed to providing lifelong care for rescued primates and birds of prey, and to educating the public on issues related to animal welfare and conservation. “Xhabu taught us that every life matters, every story is worth telling, and every act of kindness counts,” said Terri Cook, Animal Manager. “We will honour his memory by continuing to give animals a second chance and a safe, loving home.”
Can you support our urgent appeal?
🚨 Please help us build a New World Primate bock at the Haven!
With the upcoming government primate legislation, many primates will need to be relocated to safe, ethical sanctuaries. To prepare, The Haven is launching a crucial project to build a New World Primate Block, providing a permanent, secure home for these intelligent and vulnerable animals. 🐒💚
We are calling on compassionate individuals and businesses to help us ensure a safe future for these primates. Your generous support will allow us to create state-of-the-art facilities tailored to their needs, offering them the comfort and care they deserve.
How You Can Help:
- Donate to our appeal on our GoFundMe page
- Share this post to spread the word
- Donate building materials
Half-term Halloween fun
19th – 31st October
Join us this half-term for some spooky Halloween fun! (19th -31st October)
This is your chance to get up close and personal with our marvellous minibeasts and learn all about their fascinating world. There’s also spooky trail to follow, with a small treat waiting for you. Tap into your creativity with our Halloween-themed crafts. Plus tasty themed treats await you in Xhabu’s tearoom.
An we’ve got all of our usual amazing animal talks and feeds. It’s going to be a blast—don’t miss out!
Don’t forget, tickets are cheaper if you book online.
Stay as long as you like and get a free 7 day return pass.
You will be taken to a secure online booking system.
