Contest to support chimpanzee sanctuaries
A 37-year old chimpanzee, named Brent, has won first place in an art contest run by The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS).
With more than 27,000 votes overall, the contest featured strong competition from numerous other chimpanzees living in sanctuaries throughout the country.
However, it was Brent that shone through with his colourful painting that he created using his tongue.
Brent's skills have won his sanctuary, Chimp Haven in Los Angeles, a grant of more than £6,000 ($10,000)
Brent's skills have won his sanctuary, Chimp Haven in Los Angeles, a grant of more than £6,000 ($10,000) from the HSUS, to help care for him and other chimpanzees that have retired from research, entertainment and the pet trade.
In second and third place respectively, Cheetah won his sanctuary, Save the Chimps in Florida, more than £3,000 ($5,000) and Ripley won his sanctuary, the Center for Great Apes in Florida, more than £1,500 ($2,500).
Dr Jane Goodall, founder of the Jane Goodall Institute and UN Messenger of Peace, said: "All of the art was beautiful and unique, just like the chimpanzees!
"It's so important that the public support all of these sanctuaries in their mission to provide exceptional care to chimpanzees, and other primates, who have suffered through so much."
Image of Brent courtesy of Chimp Haven
Image of Brent's art courtesy of Meredith Lee/The HSUS
Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.
