Captive chimpanzees are often cautious about changes in their environment. When we recently replaced the straw on the floor of the outdoor area with a deep layer of wood chips, we expected some of the chimps to be reluctant to walk on them. We were right about that, but I never would have guessed that Jamie would be nervous while Burrito would act like nothing had changed!
One of the reasons why we put the tractor tires out there in the first place is that ex-laboratory chimpanzees are often initially hesitant to walk on natural substrates. The tires allowed them to get outside with getting their feet dirty or wet. Of course, they all got used to it eventually, just as they will get used to the wood chips. But for some, especially Foxie, it may take a little while.
