KENDALIA, Texas -- For three decades, they were poked and prodded, subjected to some of the cruelest animal testing in America.

But 41 monkeys were rescued Thursday and received a new home in Kendalia, in Kendall County.

"These monkeys have been in a living hell," said Lynn Cuny, wildlife rescue and rehabilitation director.

One 30-year-old monkey can't even bring himself to enjoy his new surroundings. Instead, he sits on top of his small 2.5-foot-by-2.5-foot cage, where he spent decades cramped inside.

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Visit Monkeys' New Home

"Some of these animals have been so psychologically brutalized," Cuny said.

The monkeys come from Coulston Laboratory in New Mexico, which was shut down by the federal government for severe animal abuse violations.

"We have been working very hard for the past year and a half to get them out of there," said Cuny. "Most of the lab records on these monkeys were destroyed, but we do know some of these animals had metal plates placed in their heads. Others had some of their organs removed."

Some monkeys suffer from nervous disorders and other degenerative diseases. But now, they're enjoying a better life.

They're free to roam around in their one-quarter of $1 million compound, across acres of land with lush trees and large pools.

But their home is still not complete. The sanctuary relies solely on donations, and they hope the public will help these animals that served them through testing throughout the years.