As the newest staff member I am enjoying many new responsibilities. The one that is, perhaps, the most fun is coming to know the chimpanzees better and developing my relationships with them. During my very first volunteer shift I remember being drawn to Annie. Elizabeth described her to me as shy and reserved, especially with the human caregivers. She reminded me of another chimpanzee friend in that regard. Over the years as a volunteer I have had the privilege to watch as she slowly comes out of her shell and I can’t tell you how lucky I always feel when Annie takes the time to greet me or play with me, however briefly. I enjoy coming to know her for herself as she figures out who that is in sanctuary. She’s always surprising us with her changing tastes; today, we caught her on film playing with one of Foxie’s Dora dolls.
