Beanie, IPPL's adorable non-seeing gibbon, came to us when he was just one year old. He was born sighted at a wildlife research foundation in Florida, but was struck with encephalitis when he was just six months old. Beanie lived in a veterinary hospital for several months where he recovered, but sadly lost his eyesight due to nerve damage.
In October 1991, Beanie was sent to IPPL's sanctuary shortly before the Florida foundation's owner died suddenly at a young age. Later his father Cleon and his mother Clementine joined us with their new son Louie-Louie.
Beanie was ten months old on arrival and somewhat bewildered. He was insecure, and would cling to a favorite blanket much of the time.
Soon Beanie began to feel comfortable and started to explore his new surroundings. He became extremely fond of all IPPL staff members, and they in turn loved this spunky little ape. He began to explore his environment and soon was swinging around as if he could see.
Beanie comes into the house every night, and he sleeps on the couch with his favorite human friends. His favorite food treats are sweet potatoes and pineapples.
