Missy and Annie may get all the attention, but there’s another friendship amongst the Cle Elum Seven that’s just as important.
As you may know, Burrito could use a little help navigating the politics of chimpanzee society. Consider his life before to coming to the sanctuary: He was born in a lab, raised as a pet, forced to perform in a circus, and then locked away for twenty years for use in hepatitis research. Can you imagine living the majority of your first 25 years on earth either alone or with a different species? Can you imagine how terrifying it would be to suddenly be thrust into a group of your own kind, only to realize that they are playing by a rule book that no one ever bothered to show you?
Thankfully, Burrito has found a good friend in Foxie. In quiet times, she’s a playful companion. When the going gets tough, she reassures him and plays peacemaker with the rest of the group. And when he is scared, she comforts him.
Burrito has all the instincts of a tough guy, but none of experience to back it up. Lucky for him he has a 97-pound girl and her troll dolls on his side.
I love to learn more about the 7; their distince personalities, place in the Sanctuary’s social order, friendships and bonds….there has always been something about Foxie and Burrito’s connection that touches me in a way that is hard to describe. The gentle kindness towards she gives him, and how lucky he is to have such a sweet friend. That you for the post and pictures. <3
This is adorable, puts a smile on my face.
This may be my favorite picture and video that you’ve posted. Could it be that Burrito brings out Foxie’s maternal instincts? Sure appears to be that way to me. As though he’s a long-lost son.
Nothing sweeter than two chimps playing and laughing.
What a beautiful picture of Burrito and Foxie in a hug! That slick floor looks like it would be fun to sit and spin on like Foxie did on her back. Have they ever tried that? I’m so glad that each and everyone of them have found a friend within the group and know they can count on them unlike the places they were previously and not knowing what was going to happen next!
Now THAT brings a smile to my face!
The news of Foxie and Burrito is new to me and I’m very happy for their friendship!
They should have their own movie review column! Using a 5 troll doll scale of course. 🙂 super sweet video. <3
Sometimes I feel like the human version of Burrito. Luckily I have had my versions of Foxie to help me when the going gets rough. Possibly my favorite post and video so far!
Big pants and hoots for this blog post.
It would be impossible to watch this video without a smile on your face. I miss the chimps and the humans at CSNW tons!
What a friend he has in Foxie (& Company!) — I too think Burrito brings out a long denied maternal instinct in Foxie, to the benefit of both. Thank you so much for this photo & video.
I’m so happy to see Burrito’s budding relationship with Foxie. I’ve always felt a little sorry for him, being the only guy and so intimidated by the gals. Sweet mama Foxie is such a natural to be his BFF!
I had no idea the chimps watch movies!! Do you serve popcorn too?! The kiss during the movie is so sweet. I was unaware of this friendship but so touched by it. All chimps are individuals, so glad you allow them to just be themselves! Loved this post.