Coconut Monkey Project: Progress, Protection & What Comes Next

At the end of 2024, WFFT launched the Coconut Monkey Project – a long‑term programme to end the abuse of monkeys in the coconut industry. Since the project began, important progress has been made on the ground, while the reality of ongoing exploitation continues to underline just how urgently this work is needed.

This update shares where the project stands today: what has already been built, how rescued monkeys are now being protected, the field work currently underway, and what comes next.

Building the Foundations: New Enclosures Completed

A key milestone for the Coconut Monkey Project has been the construction of new, purpose‑built enclosures designed specifically for rescued coconut monkeys. These enclosures offer a crucial step away from the chains, isolation, and forced labour many of these monkeys endured.

The completed side enclosures provide a secure environment where rescued monkeys can recover both physically and psychologically, while we continue work on the attached large open fields. As of February 2026, seven side enclosures are complete, and two fields full of trees and enrichment are almost complete, and 10 more side enclosures are also well underway.

Moving Monkeys to Safety

Following the completion of the side enclosures, several rescued coconut monkeys moved into these new spaces. This in turn frees up space to rescue more coconut monkeys over the coming months.

The side enclosures are connected with tunnels so that these primates, who have spent the majority of their lives isolated from their own kind, can begin to form new friendships.

Rescues Continue: New Arrivals in 2025

As facilities are being developed, rescues have not stopped. Since the launch of the Coconut Monkey Project, additional coconut monkeys have been rescued and brought to safety. But there are so many more who need help.

Each new arrival is a reminder that exploitation within the coconut industry still exists and that we have much work ahead to phase out this abuse – as seen in recent rescues like Khai Nui. Safe spaces, specialist care, and long‑term solutions are more essential than ever.

Field Work and Investigations

Alongside the construction of a new Coconut Monkey Sanctuary, rescue and rehabilitation efforts, WFFT teams have been carrying out field work in several areas in Thailand with a high density of coconut monkeys. These visits aim to collect crucial data on the locations of the animals, the scale of the issue, and begin important conversations with coconut farmers regarding alternative harvesting methods.

Coconut monkeys are still being used in large numbers throughout many parts of Thailand. This field work plays a critical role in gathering information and data.

Why the Coconut Monkey Project Is Essential

The Coconut Monkey Project exists because endangered primates are being taken from the wild and ‘trained’ to harvest coconuts. Ending exploitation requires more than rescues alone. It requires long‑term care, advocacy, and public awareness.

By combining these elements, the Coconut Monkey Project aims not only to protect individual monkeys, but to change the systems that allow this abuse to continue.

What Comes Next

In the months ahead, field work will continue. And once new enclosures are ready, more rescues will be undertaken. Furthermore, we will continue working with the authorities and coconut industry to drive meaningful change. Every action brings us closer to a future where coconut monkeys are no longer exploited for profit.

How You Can Help

Donations towards the Coconut Monkey Project makes this work possible. Without financial support, we cannot continue this important project. By standing with WFFT, raising awareness, and donating to our efforts, you can directly help monkeys in our care and those who are waiting for rescue. Every donation counts.

Together, we can build lasting change.

With special thanks to the Coconut Monkey Coalition, Humane World for Animals Australia, Edward & Sons, Qato Fonden, The Marchig Animal Welfare Trust / the Foundation Marchig, Olsen Animal Trust, Abri voor Dieren and WWAR.