CDC to Transfer Over 160 Macaques to Texas Sanctuary in Research Phase-Out Effort

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is advancing efforts to reduce the use of primates in scientific research by initiating a large-scale transfer of macaques to a dedicated sanctuary. This move marks a significant step in the agency’s ongoing initiative to phase out the use of monkeys in research settings.

A Transition to Primate Sanctuary

The CDC intends to relocate more than 160 macaques to Born Free USA, a nonprofit organization that operates a large primate sanctuary in Texas. This transition is designed to provide the animals with specialized care and housing outside of a research environment.

Urgency in Securing Housing

The agency is moving with significant speed to facilitate this transition. According to a notice regarding the proposed contract posted on a procurement website run by the General Services Administration, the CDC has cited an “unusual and compelling urgency” regarding the need to secure appropriate housing for the macaques.

While the agency has not specified a definitive timeline for the completion of the transfer, it is currently accepting responses to the proposal. The deadline for these responses is May 28.

Key Takeaways

• Transfer Scale: The CDC plans to move more than 160 macaques.
• Destination: The primates will be housed at the Born Free USA sanctuary in Texas.
• Strategic Goal: The relocation supports the agency’s efforts to phase out the use of monkeys in research.
• Urgency: The agency has noted an “unusual and compelling urgency” in finding housing, with a response deadline of May 28.