Yesterday, Diana and myself shoveled pathways onto Young’s Hill. It was still pretty cold outside, and we didn’t see any of the chimpanzees go out. After a day and some sun, the snow began to slightly melt. With some wider paths created with the melting snow, the chimpanzees decided to venture out today. Negra (of all people) was the one waiting by the door to Young’s Hill and was very eager to head out. After a few feet, she realized she was alone and reached out to Annie for some reassurance, which Annie obliged.
Once reassurance was given, Negra was okay.
Once Annie was out, she was immediately followed by Missy and Foxie.
For Negra, Foxie, and Missy, their first order of business was to sit in the sun on the platform and take in the snowy landscape.
Annie, on the other hand, went straight for Negra’s Cabin.
Annie seemed quite cozy there and stayed in Negra’s Cabin for some time. For the others though, there were was a bounty of edible landscape to be had. Foxie decided to take her bounty on the go.
And like the den mother she always is, Jody had to monitor those out on Young’s Hill to ensure they came back safe.
We just passed out their nighttime enrichment (Kongs) to wrap up today. Jamie grabbed her Kongs and bolted for Young’s Hill before I could close it.
She just returned and seems pleased with her last patrol of the day. The rest of the chimpanzees are already snug in their nests and I can see on our security monitors Jamie has started to grab some blankets of her own. Until next time, friends!
Jo Lathrop says
Beautiful and descriptive post, Chad and thanks so much! Love having a window into their world!! Love and hugs to you all…
Kathleen says
Oh my delight in seeing Negra, first out!, with her face turned towards the sun. And then I saw Annie, alone, in her wind free, sun filled solitude…. (heavy sigh) be still my beating heart. Then den mother Jody checking on everyone. Cherry on top, Jamie sneaking out past curfew for one final patrol. (And were you lucky Chad, Jamie didn’t stay out late as she has been known to do at times!) What a wonderfilled day, everyone doing exactly what they want to do. Life in sanctuary is good.
Leslie Sodaro says
love, love Buddha Mama Negra
Linda C says
I’ve said this before, but some of my favorite words are “Negra was the first one out the door.”
And once again, what a womderful gift the hill was-it must be amazing to see how much they appreciate it almost daily-it’s the beginning and end of their days!
Barbara H. says
Great post. Love hearing how unique and different they are and FREE to do exactly
what they want on a given day. Eating the snow is so much fun – human kids do the
same – I loved it. Thanks for the blog.