Gilbert, the Happy Chatterbox

Sex: Male

Year Born: 1998

Year arrived at Sanctuary: 2007

Species: Long-tailed macaque

Best Friends: India and his human caregivers

Likes:Chatting with his human caregivers, wrapping himself up in warm blankets on cold days, and grooming with his friend, India.

Gilbert was kept illegally as a pet for many years and came to us underweight and demonstrating serious stereotypical behaviors – those are purposeless, obsessive behaviors caused by stress. Gilbert's stereotypies manifested as self-harm. He had plucked his lower legs bald of fur and he used to self-bite.

Thankfully, despite this difficult start to life, Gilbert has thrived here at the sanctuary. He is known for being one of the friendliest and chattiest monkeys and will always come over with an enthusiastic welcome to any of his caregivers when they come to see him. Eyebrow flashes and lip smacks (typical macaque greetings) are Gilbert's specialty.

Despite his angelic appearance and generally sweet nature, Gilbert can be a something of a troublemaker when the mood takes him and will sometimes squabble with his neighbors. However, he is firm friends with India, a pig-tailed macaque who also came from the pet trade and arrived less than a year after he did. The pair like to snuggle up under a blanket on cold nights and can often be found grooming one another on sunny days.

You can support Gilbert on his ongoing journey of recovery by adopting him!

If you adopt Gilbert, consider also adopting Gizmo, another long-tailed macaque.