An emotional reunion between a chimpanzee and his former caregiver went viral on Instagram. The footage was taken at the Douala-Edéa Natural Park in Cameroon.
The chimpanzee named Citron caught the attention of internet users after being seen hugging Fabrice Moudoungue, his former caregiver from the NGO Papaye International, which reintroduces animals back into the wild.
Citron was rescued as a baby and underwent a rehabilitation process before returning to the wild in 2019.
The video shows the chimpanzee meeting Fabrice on Pongo Island, Cameroon, in the middle of the Sanaga River. He then hugs him affectionately, showing that he still remembers his caregiver.
Currently, about 34 primates live semi-freely on the islands of Pongo-Songo, Okokong, and Yatou. They receive food and supervision until they are fully adapted.
According to the sanctuary manager, François Elimbi, the chimpanzee’s gesture is a sign of the strength of the bond established between the caregiver and Citron during rehabilitation.
“It’s very powerful. It means he still recognizes who took care of him. It’s a moment that gives you goosebumps,” he said.
Photos: Instagram @papaye.international. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
