Endangered

Florence’s bonobo sanctuary is one of the most prevalent symbols in the novel, for it symbolizes protection and security for both the bonobos and the humans who reside there. For the bonobos, the sanctuary is a place of peace and comfort where they can heal and recover from any harm that humans have caused. For example, Anastasia comes to the sanctuary when she becomes too large to live in a house. Otto comes to the sanctuary to recover from malnutrition and the many sores and scabs he acquired while in the hands of the animal trafficker. All the bonobos at the sanctuary are loved, respected, and given the best medical care possible. The apes are also allowed to grow into competent adults who can then be released back into the wild at Florence’s preserve on the Congo River. Once the rebels attack the sanctuary, the bonobo enclosure becomes another form of protection for the apes and for Sophie as well. She knows the rebels will not risk entering the enclosure while the electric fence is running and this buys her enough time to make a plan. She gets to know the adult bonobos and establishes a relationship with them during that time.