USDA Files Complaint Against Jungle Friends Primate Sanctuary for Animal Welfare Violations

Bagnall contends that the complaint does not accurately reflect the sanctuary's current conditions and asserts that past issues have been resolved. In response, she is preparing a rebuttal to the USDA.

According to the complaint, which stems from more than a dozen inspections between September 2021 and June 2026, 19 violations of the Animal Welfare Act were documented. Allegations mention inadequate veterinary care, administration of expired medications, unsanitary environments, unsafe food storage, pest control failures, and issues with enclosure maintenance.

Among the most serious allegations are those regarding two animals that died while in the sanctuary's care. The complaint cites a lack of veterinary care that contributed to the death of Lola, a cotton-top tamarin, in June 2023. Bagnall stated that efforts were made to revive Lola, including administering fluids, but veterinarians could not be reached promptly. Despite a brief recovery, Lola died the next day.

The complaint also refers to the case of Golden Child, a brown capuchin, who sustained injuries during a fight in June 2024 due to a failure to follow treatment instructions. Bagnall described the incident as shocking and emphasized improvements in animal care protocols since then, including a new digital system to monitor health issues.

Further allegations include a capuchin receiving an incorrect dosage of expired medication in November 2023. Bagnall pointed out that the staff member responsible for administering medication is no longer permitted to do so, and additional safety checks have been implemented.

Bagnall expressed concern over the complaint, stating that the sanctuary had made significant improvements and that more recent inspections had shown no violations in three out of four attempts in 2026, with one inspection citing only rust.

Delcianna Winders, a law professor at Vermont Law and director of its Animal Law and Policy Institute, noted that taking such action is uncommon for the USDA and indicates serious concerns. She emphasized that prior violations influence the current case, as repeat citations were included in the complaint.

Former volunteer Lawrence Coyne, who has connections to Jungle Friends, voiced concern about the sanctuary’s staffing and its impact on animal care. He stated that the rapid expansion of the sanctuary might have overstressed its resources.

The USDA has not commented on the ongoing case, and Jungle Friends' Class C license remains active, allowing it to exhibit animals. A legal process is now underway where the sanctuary can contest the allegations. A settlement may be reached at any time, possibly leading to changes in practices or penalties.

Currently, Jungle Friends remains open to visitors, with Bagnall inviting the public to observe the care provided to the animals.