In the comments section of a previous post, Michelle asked, “I’m interested in learning what their possible reactions might be to the wide open outdoor spaces that they will encounter, are you anticipating any anxiety from them and how will you deal with it? I’ve read how many of the chimps released in Florida at the sanctuary there have some pretty stressful reactions to natural spaces, any ideas you can share with us on how it might go?”
As Debbie mentioned in her response, we do anticipate that some of the chimps will initially be hesitant to walk out into the wide open space of Young’s Hill. To help them overcome their fears, we built a fire hose hand rail so that they might feel anchored to something familiar as they venture out. We also built a walkway made of logs for those who might be anxious about grass underfoot. Both of these structures lead to a nearby platform, which resembles the platform in their current outdoor enclosure.
We hope that these things will make it easier for the chimps to take those first steps out into the unknown, but of course, they will do things at their own pace. Some will head out as soon as we open the door, while others may need some time. And some may just need the right incentive, like a field full of frozen watermelons (I’m looking at you, Burrito)….
a field of frozen watermelons? Burrito will so be there!
what great chimpy friends/parents/advocates you all are to make sure there are things in the new great beyond that are familiar … hmmm … watermelon
It will be an overwhelming experience for some, I imagine, but I bet it won’t take too long until they’ll be hooting to go out. It seems that way at Chimp Eden in South Africa—some when introduced to the great outdoors are uncertain at first, but in their own time come around. Thanks for your careful thought out plans!
oooh – I’m SO-SO-SO excited for them! 🙂 Do you have an ETR yet (Estimated Time of Release)? Even though I can’t be there in person, I’d love to be sending them good thoughts as that gate swings open …
Good idea, Anna, if there is a specific time the gate will rise, then at that moment, no matter the time zone, we could all send good thoughts and prayers.
We don’t have a date yet because some of the materials that we need to finish the project have yet to be delivered. We’ll let everyone know when the date is set.
I agree, what a great idea!! I’d love to be able to send good thoughts and prayers their way at that moment. <3
J.B., I love, love, love the railing and the log bridge to the platform, great idea. I, also, love that you used natural logs for the bridge, another good idea. You’ve given them two ways to get onto the hill, now it’s up to them. You and the chimps have come a long way in 3 years, you’re loving caregivers and the “7” know this, good job!
Coincidentally, there’s a new article on and video of some chimps rescued from medical research being released to the outdoors for the first time —
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2034439/Lab-chimps-freed-caged-fior-30-years-injected-HIV.html
Amy, I watched that video too and the Daily Mail need to understand chimp facial expressions better and that they aren’t smiling with happiness. As I watched all the hugs and reassurance hugs I knew what they were doing because of what CSNW has taught us over the years, thanks for all of the information CSNW imparts to us, very valuable indeed.
Thank you Amy for the link. It really, really feels like the tide is turning for the chimps who’ve been captive for decades! It seems like more are being freed every time I turn around! It is just amazing and wonderful, and so, so overdue. Bless all their sturdy chimp hearts. I hope they all get to enjoy what’s theirs to enjoy for as long as they can!
The 7 too! I want to join the “Positive Thought Circle” as they have their amazing first day out! I feel like I will be giddy with excitement!
Candy — Yes. Exactly like when Ham returned from space and had a huge fear grimace they called a smile.
Michelle: I think it is going to be a very stressfull day for all involved. There will lots of hugging and reasurance not only from the chimps but the all the humans who follow the CE7. I know there will tears where I’m concerned, but they will be tears of joy. I think and have no background in such things, Jamie will lead her group outdoors, she will be closely followed by Jody and Missie, Foxie just might surprise me and be in the group also. I think Annie will be very hesitante to venture out but then she has surprised us all in the past with her ever growing bravery. Burrito …. if there is food he will go out, I don’t think the first day but once he figures out there is food involved he will be there. Negra is the one who I am concerned about, I think it’s just going to be too much for her and it might be sometime before she will venture out. Which is just fine, the best thing about Sanctuary life is the chimps are able to have more control over their lifes and if she is not willing to do something then she doesn’t have to do it. It will be her choice.
The first week or so is going to be very interesting to watch and try to figure out what they are thinking and feeling. After that I think it’s just going to be just plain play time for them.
wonderful picture and great comment’s i cant wait for release day and agree with Anna and candy id love love to be sending comforting vibes of love on the day xxxx
It is just, just beautiful…the Great Outdoors, just for the magnificent 7. Haven’t been this excited about anything in a looong time! Can’t wait to see their entrance to freedom! 🙂 You must all be so proud of what you’ve accomplished for them!
Isn’t there a way to do a live video stream their first moments out in the open? I know you’ll have camera crews recording the event but I’m getting so excited about this moment I feel like jumping on a platform and brachiating! 🙂
We are on wireless broadband so we don’t have the ability to stream video. But rest assured we will have video up ASAP 🙂
May God continue to bless you with your endeavors and love for the wonderful “7” that you’ve taken in and continue to nuture!!!!! There is a special place in heaven for you!
I am so excited for everyone!! I carry all of you in a special chimpanzee shaped pace in my heart.
It’s going to be a great day for ALL… All seven having the choice to run for it or go at their own pace. I truly hope thay all go for it. And being a smaller group, it just may entice each one to follow each other. Fingers crossed xx. Good wishes and big, big smiles 🙂 What a day it will be………
Who do you think will be the first one to venture out? I am looking forward to the pictures and films like so many others. I will be thinking of everyone involved for the best day possible.