While volunteers Chelsea, Erin, and Kailie were finishing up the big clean of the playroom today, I went in search of some chimpanzees.
I found all seven of them on the “top bunk” of the structure in the greenhouse. I was able to watch them for twenty minutes or so as they rested and groomed. There were frequent switches of grooming partners, with everyone receiving and giving attention at various times and then sitting quietly grooming themselves or dozing off.
It’s incredibly heartening to witness this rag-tag bunch interacting like a true chimpanzee family group. They definitely don’t always get along (no primates do, if we’re being honest), but these times of togetherness are a big part of who they have become. Even when they were focusing on themselves, they were just inches away from one other.
Here are a few photos of Missy and Jamie:
What a touching blog. Thanks for making my day. The 7 have such a special part in my heart. I honor and respect their incredible,e resilience. The photos are beautiful!
It us truly heartwarming to hear about this lovely group. I’m so happy that they are receiving the love and care that they deserve.
Awesome pictures. The chimps look content! They have come a long way!
Thanks for sharing this bit.
The clarity of these photos is simply magnificent. I always enjoy your black and white portraits. When you had the very first seedling of an idea to rescue these seven beautiful chimps, did you ever imagine you would all come this far in ten years time? Everything you have achieved, caregivers and chimps alike, inspires me beyond words.
Beautiful, poetic post J. B. and thank you so much!! Just makes me feel so peaceful (with the world swirling around as it will do) Much love to you all….
Just like children, they just need time to play.
This is so cool, Elaine! Thanks for sharing that little experiment.
Beautiful photos…as always! Do you find that the chimps get along better when they are out in the open and seem to have more squabbles when they are in closer quarters or doesn’t it matter where they are in the Sanctuary? It doesn’t seem like they get into as many skirmishes when they are out on the hill…or do they?
Its true that they don’t tend to fight as much when on the hill. When the odd skirmish does break out in the outdoor habitat, they usually run inside to finish it off indoors.
Interesting! Well, that’s just probably their designated space to solve arguments! 🙂 Thanks Diana!