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Viral video: Chimpanzee overcome with joy after reuniting with foster family in Miami

Posted at 6:27 AM, Jul 04, 2018
and last updated 2018-07-04 18:06:05-04

(WSVN/CNN) - Video of reunion between a chimpanzee and his former foster parents in Miami is capturing hearts around the world.

Limbani the chimpanzee received a surprise visit at the Zoological Wildlife Foundation, located in southwest Miami-Dade County, from the couple that helped raise him.

"They give him so much love and attention. He's like part of the family. He feels he's part of the family," said Mario Tabraue, the president and director of Zoological Wildlife Foundation Miami.

When Limbani first arrived at the wildlife sanctuary, he was sick and needed around the clock care.

That's where Jorge and Tania Sanchez came into his life.

"While they were taking care of him, he had pneumonia. He had to go to doctors. He had to have his nebulizer two times a day, and they did it all and he got very bonded with them," said Tabraue.

As the video shows, their bond is unbreakable.

The 22-month-year-old chimp is unable to contain his excitement every time he sees them.

"He wants hugs. He jumps on them. All their love that they have for him he shares back," said Tabraue.

With their viral video being viewed by thousands, the hope is that the love Limbani shares with the Sanchez family will inspire others to love these animals just the same.

"People should understand that not only this species but all species that we have are going extinct in the wild, and some people don't care. People think, 'Let them go extinct.' We believe they shouldnt go extinct. We believe we should give them more attention and more love," said Tabraue.

The Sanchezes got to pick Limbani up for a sleepover Tuesday night.

Courtesy WSVN via CNN Newsource