Today, the chimps reminded me of a Calvin and Hobbes comic strip by cartoonist Bill Watterson.
The comic goes something like this:
Hobbes: You know what I like about summer days? They’re just made for doing things… even if it’s nothing.
Calvin: Especially if it’s nothing.
Nothing is exactly what the chimps decided to do today. The vibe in the Chimp House was one of tranquility and peace. It was, as the kids say nowadays, “chill.”
The day began with a lengthy breakfast that was followed by relaxation in the Greenhouse.
Jody and Burrito spent a good chunk of time grooming each other…
…and all the chimps made trips into the shady building to relax, cool off, and observe the caregivers.
Throughout the morning Jamie remained calmly engaged with Level III volunteer Chad, who dutifully wore Jamie’s favorite cowboy boots while she used a length of plastic hose to groom them.
Foxie had the best plans of them all. She found a quiet, secluded corner of the Greenhouse and played with a couple of dolls. She even allowed me to sit outside of the caging with my camera and take a few quick shots.
At a time with so much commotion and activity around the sanctuary on this hot summer day, the chimps seemed especially carefree and calm this morning.
I’ve a question about the first photograph: Foxie either looks agitated or fearful. Do you know what might have been the behavioral antecedent involved? Or, as I’ve sometimes noticed with her, was she merely excited and thus her face displayed her enthusiasm as such?
That’s a great observation, Tobin! From the first photo alone, I would have also guessed that she was uneasy, and that’s how many chimps react to cameras and similar devices. Foxie, of course, made the choice to be in front of the lens and seemed to be investigating me just as much as I was observing her. In this case, Foxie was making all sorts of facial expressions while looking at the camera lens. This photo captured just one of many.
the photography is stunning!
Great pic’s today !
in order to work/volunteer at CSN, you must be able to fit into Jamie’s Boots 🙂
Sadly, most are too small for me. She’s somewhat interested in my sneakers and rubber boots, but I often find myself carrying cowboy boots around to make her happy.
Welcome Anthony.i loved your take on the day& the chimps.Sounds like the perfect summer day.I am excited to welcome the new residents soon& hear all about their transition& connections& personalities.Thx again.You are so blessed to be a part of the team.???
Thanks for following and supporting us! I am certainly lucky to serve such amazing individuals as part of the CSNW team.
I just be love the chimps doing their things, but I can’t wait for the chimps. Will you bring videoing on the trip to the sanctuary. I just want to see the looks on their faces. Especially mother and daughter. That is so special.
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Hi Janet- we will be recording all of the developments over the next few months so that we can share the experience with you all. We look forward to it as well!
It’s been hot and humid where I live and I wish I could look as calm, cool, and collected as the chimps. Wonderful they are unphased by all the changes going on around them. The last photo of dear Negra made me smile, almost looks as if she is doing chin ups.
They’ve been remarkably calm about most of the new developments. As for Neggie, she makes me smile, too, but chin-ups aren’t really her thing. 🙂
She’s a member of Curious Geroge’s Gym (est. 1941).
Hot and humid here, too, though less on the coast, thank goodness.
Thanks, Anthony, for clarifying which one was Chad and which was Jamie! ;P
Chad’s excellent but Jamie is still the boss. I gave them both due credit so there was no confusion.
Lol, does Chad get a rebuttal? ;P
In a few days I really got addicted to your posts! A great enterprise and great personalaties, all of you creatures out there. (Marguerite Rumke, from Amsterdam, The Netherlands)