Alex, his sister Jake, and Aunt Gizmo were born at Wooster College in Ohio, where they were involved in cognitive and behavioral research throughout their lives. Fortunately, after the research concluded, the entire family was able to retire to sunny Florida. Alex was 30 years old when he arrived at Jungle Friends.

Both Alex and his companion, Aunt Gizmo, arrived at Jungle Friends diabetic and on medication. With special diets and attentive care, they now thrive on good nutrition alone. Alex eagerly engages with caregivers, often calling out to them and reaching for an extra grape or another special treat. His most recent blood work shows his health is steadily improving.

Alex quickly embraced life at the sanctuary and was the first of his group to venture outdoors. One of his favorite pastimes is using a stick to tamper with his automatic water dispenser—just so he can create a playful mud puddle.