Annie is continuing to show her newfound adventurous nature.
The other chimpanzees (well, most of them) were inspired to follow her out into the snowy expanse of Young’s Hill this afternoon.
The pair of photos below of Annie and Jody are my favorite! It’s so uplifting to see the chimpanzees support one another and share in adventures big and small:
Foxie and Missy were 3rd and 4th out. The photo below is of Foxie giving Missy a quick hug before continuing along the path:
Foxie didn’t have to go very far to find a snack:
Nor did Missy:
Jody seemed to be in awe of the snow:
and dove right in for a taste:
Jamie came out after a few minutes and headed straight for a structure. She often takes the lead in adventures, but not today.
Though she did win points for her acrobatics once outside:
She also found some big chunks of snow to bring back into the building to savor:
Negra and Burrito didn’t follow these adventurers, but I did see Negra coming in later in the day, and I have no doubt Burrito at least reached an arm out to get a taste.
Before ending this post, I have to express our gratitude for volunteers and interns. This week we have really relied on you!
After being sick for a week herself, Katelyn has been the only healthy full time staff member this week. We’re very deliberate about staying away from the chimp house when we are feeling under the weather because we don’t want the chimpanzees to catch our bugs, so volunteers and interns have been life savers!
Today I’m much better but still not at 100%. I was able to don a mask and gloves to operate doors but luckily had an incredible crew of volunteers and Central Washington University interns who did the (literal) dirty work all day.
Thank you to all of you who give your free time to the sanctuary – it makes a huge difference to all of the primates here!
It’s so inspiring and wonderful to see the teamwork, commitment, and hard work that go in to running the sanctuary and taking care of the chimps. I am far from you, but want to thank you all from the bottom of my heart for loving and nurturing these 7 precious chimps. They and many of their relatives have had horrendous lives and it is uplifting to know there are many who are willing to finally bring them some happiness. THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR WORK !!! <3
Well said, Donna. I only have a few animals and I know how much work it is lugging kitty litter in and out of the house. It’s bad enough when you are well, but it becomes overwhelming when you aren’t feeling good.
Holding all the interns in love and light and sending the staff healing energies to settle on you and remain with you. Wonderful wonderful work you all do and my gratitude flows to you daily!!
Diana, this was an in-depth look at chimps adventures today, can’t believe you found the energy to do this while feeling so sick. Please get well soon! These photos are wonderful…Jody with her relaxed lip makes me smile, and Missy’s little bod, and beautiful Annie. Each chimp so unique and lovely. Sigh….
Sending out a big “Thank you!” to all of the interns and volunteers. Your time and care is reflected in these photos too. Thanks to you the chimps are kept safe, comfortable, cozy, and well fed. Thank you for giving them wonderful adventures. We are all grateful for your generosity of spirit (and hard work!).