Today we messed with the chimpanzees’ routine. There is a tall structure in the greenhouse that needed some repair, so the chimpanzees weren’t able to get outside until J.B. and volunteer Chad finished their fix-it job.
All morning, Burrito alternated between his Tasmanian devil self and his adorable playful self.
Lest you think the change in routine or lack of outdoor access caused his Tasmanian devil self to appear, allow me to elaborate to explain that on pretty much any given day, Burrito alternates between these two extremes.
I only got a picture of the later, but you might be able to see a twinkle of mischief in those eyes.
Don’t let him fool you.
When the greenhouse (and the raceway that leads to the large outdoor habitat) was ready to be occupied by chimpanzees again, we decided to take advantage of the unusually warm weather and provide the chimps with a dinner forage outside. We spread and hid whole tomatoes, pieces of watermelon, and mini sweet peppers all over the enclosure.
Much to our delight, Queen Negra was as eager as everyone else to get outside.
Negra is not one to choose to exert much energy, but apparently the whole tomatoes were worth stretching to get:
Jamie utilized the coolest anatomical feature that separates chimpanzees from humans – opposable toes – to carry a tomato as she continued her foraging:
Jody demonstrated the large capacity of her lips by carrying three peppers stacked on top of one another other:
And now the chimpanzees are back inside, quiet as ever while making their blanket nests, to take a restful sleep and wake up tomorrow to another day of sanctuary life.
Jo Lathrop says
Such wonderful, glorious creatures!! Thanks so much for into and pix ~ greatly appreciated!! Love and hugs to all…
Kathleen says
An outside forage with watermelon and tomatoes made it appear as if it was summer on Young’s Hill today. What a wonderful day. I especially enjoyed the photo of Negra reaching up for the tomatoes. And I’ll confess, Burrito may not have me totally fooled, but I am totally beguiled and bewitched by his charms.
Linda says
Good….you’ve found something Neggie will put forth some effort for! (just ’cause it’s good for her to work a bit).
Wow, Mr. B’s slinky is really holding up well, isn’t it!?
June Ireland says
I have to admit I’m sometimes jealous of those opposable toes!
Judy says
What a wonderful day with everyone participating… great to see Negra working her body.. incredible creatures in a fantastic environment with amazing people to have as friends. 🙂 You all ROCK!