Esake is a young bonobo who has rediscovered her smile.

Given all she has already experienced in her brief existence, the tiniest trace of a smile in this baby ape’s case is an indication of great fortitude.

Esake was seen late last month riding a bicycle’s back toward a market in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Esake ought to have been attached to her mother at such an early age. However, nothing had transpired as it ought to have.

Thank goodness, someone saw tiny Esake riding this bike and realized things wasn’t right.

When they contacted the local police, they learned that a hunter was transporting a cargo of bushmeat on a bicycle. One of the hunters victims, shot and slain with a poisoned arrow, had been Esake’s mother.

Hunters frequently sell the young of murdered gorillas into the black market for pets. But Esake would have a different outcome.

Esake was soon introduced to Héritier Mpo, a community partner of the Bonobo Conservation Initiative (BCI), and his presence made her smile.

Esake fell in love with Héritier right away, but her trip was far from complete.

The staff at BCI and another group, Lola Ya Bonobo, were working swiftly to arrange a spot for the helpless young orphan at a sanctuary, but getting there through the bush would not be easy.

Esake must be transported to sanctuary as soon as possible in order to protect her health and safety because it is challenging and expensive to do so in the DRC, according to BCI. “Bonobo rescues can also put the humans involved in danger.”

Héritier was injured in a motorcycle accident while transporting Esake but was able to totally protect Esake from harm.

Esake has experienced a difficult few weeks, according to BCI. “Esake underwent Héritier’s care began to regain some strength despite being traumatized and feeble. She quickly adjusted to eating fruit and drinking from a bottle.”

Esake’s experience with Héritier came to an end when she was given to individuals who then transported her to the Kinshasa sanctuary. She will develop in this place, safe and surrounded by strong people.

We are happy to announce that she arrived in Kinshasa on Tuesday and is currently settling comfortably, according to BCI.

Esake has finally returned to a location where she can feel at home, which is undoubtedly cause for celebration.