This is the time of the year that the inland regions of the Northwest dry out and burn.
Wildfires are a natural and necessary process in the grasslands and forests of the American West, but that doesn’t make them any less daunting. The flames can turn forested hillsides to ash, drive people from their homes, and engulf any structure left in their path. The resulting haze can block out the sun for weeks and make it dangerous for many people to go outdoors. We know more about the role that such infernos play in our ecosystem, but decades of fire suppression have left abundant fuel laying around. Climate change has brought higher temperatures and drier summers, population growth has brought more people into the woods, and development has placed more anthropogenic structures in harm’s way. It’s no surprise that wildfires have grown more intense, frequent, and economically impactful in recent years.
Right now, almost a thousand personnel are fighting a wildfire that has crossed into Kittitas County and descended into its namesake valley. This agricultural hub contains the towns of Ellensburg and Cle Elum, Central Washington University, and Chimpanzee Sanctuary Northwest. The sanctuary is not threatened by this blaze (although some past fires were way too close for comfort and led us to develop a mitigation and prevention system), but the plume of smoke was visible from the sanctuary and the valley was covered in a thick blanket of haze for a couple of days (below).
The firefighting crews of the Pacific Northwest spend lots of time preparing for events like this, and their main goal is always to protect human lives and homes while allowing for nature to do its thing. The Evans Canyon Fire, as it is now called, has incinerated over 75,000 acres of land (an area 1/10 the size of my home state) and is still only partially contained. Even with diverse experts, mathematical models, state-of-the-art equipment and dedicated firefighters, one unexpected breeze could drive the fire past the breaks and into new territory. Containment depends on preparedness and insight, of course, but it also depends on luck. For now, the conditions have been forgiving enough to get us through.
This is where we found ourselves this weekend with Burrito Chimpanzee. You can do lots of things to prepare for a scenario like this, and of course we have discussed the possibility of a chimpanzee being bitten by a venomous snake. Ultimately, though, we were grateful that luck was on our side.
The snake only bit one chimpanzee, not any of the others who mobbed it. The chimps retreated, allowing the team to close off the enclosure and carefully remove the confused rattlesnake. Burrito voluntarily isolated himself in an indoor enclosure, permitting immobilization. We obtained the necessary antivenin, and a little extra, quickly. Our entire staff rushed in to help on a weekend, and Dr. Erin was able to wrangle difficult circumstances to get the life-saving treatment into Burrito. Bubba, despite his initial bad luck, once again proved his resilience and strength. There were so many ways that this situation could have unraveled, but we’re glad it didn’t.
Now, the blaze is mostly contained but the fire is not out yet, and we’re still working around the clock to make sure we can respond to any setbacks. Most importantly, the team is monitoring Burrito’s clinical signs 24/7. Diana and J.B. set up a makeshift bed in the foyer of the Chimp House (above) so that people can be around all night, and we have a supply of emergency drugs loaded and ready-to-go on the clinic counter (also above). We have charts covered in hastily scrawled observations and checklists, and we were ready to give him food, meds, and liquids as soon as he was feeling well enough to sit up. Everyone whooped when he first sat up and urinated, and the atmosphere grew even more exuberant when he reached out and took a grape. We all exhaled in relief as Burrito, our resident phoenix, rose from the proverbial ashes and began to play the “poke” game with caregivers from the comfort of his blanket nest (below). J.B. recently remarked that veterinarians never get to eat dinners in peace, but that also seems true for the rest of the sanctuary staff lately. All day, we’ve been sending texts back and forth regarding Burrito’s status, and we’ve been doing our best to keep the greater CSNW community in the loop. I’ve never been so grateful to work with such a supportive, cohesive, dedicated group of people.
With the consultation of veterinary experts, led by our own Dr. Erin, we’re taking every precaution to give Burrito the best chance at a full recovery. He’s a popular guy, overflowing with charisma, and helps us to know that his loyal fans are also supporting our efforts. We look forward to sending you all some more good news very soon. For now, though, all we can do is continue to monitor Bubba and enjoy tonight’s beautiful sunset- one that only a horrific wildfire could paint.
Marcia says
This post was interesting and heartwarming at the same time. Thanks Anthony. We truly do appreciate all of your efforts to keep up updated on our guy. His charisma is certainly undeniable. J.B.’s afternoon post was above and beyond.
The fire sunset is a sight to behold and I know the picture can’t do it justice. You sure are living an interesting life at SNW!
Hines Christine says
You guys are so awesome. Your respect for the life of these chimpanzees and your efficiency in taking care of them is so inspiring. Take good care of yourselves!
I’ll send you positive thoughts regarding your fires I’d you send them for ours…Southern California is an inferno this time of year.
Hines Christine says
Correction: I’d is suppose to be if.
Janet says
So happy to hear Burrito is healing. When I heard the news yesterday I thought the poor guy, what luck he has, but then realized Burrito is resilient.
Deborah Bishop says
I don’t comment here though I read the blog and updates every day, perhaps because often the other followers say what I’m thinking or feeling and say it better than I can. I’m across the border on a northern gulf island and we’re getting the smoke and haze from your fires, I think of you all every time I see the blood red sunrise or the unusual sunsets and I cross my fingers for the safety of all who are at CSN. Although our seaside ecology and habitat is different to yours, in summer we share the tinder dry conditions. Water tables, wells and cisterns are their lowest now and we dread the possibility of fire. Last night I read about Burrito and the snake, it was a restless night and I monitored my emails this morning waiting for word of his condition. So pleased he is responding and so grateful for you all who dedicate yourselves to the care and well being of all the residents there. You are marvellous!
Laura B says
OMG what a huge relief! Seeing Mr Charm sitting up is warming heart cockles everywhere! Hugs and kisses to those poor, swollen fingers. Kudos to: 1.) the fabulous six who did a superior, and I’m sure, extremely LOUD job of sounding the alarm 2.) the ace team of caregivers who got everyone to safety 3.) super chimp Mr. B who cooperated with his friends whom he obviously trusts completely to isolate himself 4.) Dr. Erin and her helpers and those experienced folks she contacted for advice 5.) those who continue to watch over and play poke with the precious patient 6.) the six ladies who await their chance to care for the patient and 7.) JB and Anthony for the updates. Really, guys these updates are great BUT now that we have happy, happy news AND pictures, please, please make sure you are taking care of yourselves. Self-care is not just desirable but critically important.
Harley Robb says
He really is such a strong guy, and your sanctuary’s loving care is sure to help him recover. Fingers crossed for this sweet man!
Sherry says
Tears of gratitude!!!
Rene says
Sending all you Angels prayers, strength, and love. ? ? ??
Katerina says
I am relieved to hear the good news I hope Burrito continues to improve and get stronger with each passing day. My thoughts are within him, love you Burrito. ??????
Cheryl says
Thank goodness! I was so worried about the sweet Bubba. He is really an endearing fellow. I hope he is 1000 times better tomorrow. Thank you for keeping us in the loop. I asked sooo many people to pray for him. Some belief that we can collectively help him I suppose. Or maybe an impotent act of desperation from afar. Either way, he is so loved.
Cheryl says
THANK YOU all of you for your dedication, compassion, love, support, hard work, boring work, and to the adjunct people that come in when needed. Thank you for being a place that we want to support and send love to and that takes such fine care of these deserving beings.
Beverly Donovan says
Thanks Anthony for another great post!
Beth says
A lesson for all of us in kindness and resilience. More good thoughts coming your way in thanks.
Barbara H. says
It was so wonderful to wake up to such a reassuring post about Burrito. His desire
to remain at CSNW as a happy and carefree chimp is getting him through the ordeal.
So wonderful to hear about your amazing staff and caregivers. Those chimps have
hit the jackpot on their home. Good luck to Burrito. Prayers are sent his way and
looks very positive. Thank you for the great blog.
Elaine Reininger says
Thanks Anthony for the update on Buritto. can’t get him out of my mind no matter what I am doing. I know he still isn’t out of the woods, but every little improvement is encouraging and a good sign.
Caroline says
My eyes are leaking reading today’s blog; what an amazing group of animals and caregivers! Burrito knew to go to you for help when he knew he was in dire straights and you responded with life saving care, no words can describe how much I admire you all.
Please stay safe with the fires around you, and may they be extinguished quickly. My love and prayers go out to Burrito for a full recovery and to the other chimpanzees who are most certainly worried about their best bud. Many thanks and with great respect,
Caroline
Linda C says
best wishes for a peaceful (and dare I hope for restful?) Labor Day for all of the residents and staff of CSNW, chimpy people and otherwise
Linda C says
and happy birthday to dear, sweet Annie, whose snake alert screams were surely the loudest! May she get her sunflowers!
Arlene and Michael says
So relieved to know dear Burrito is up and showing signs of improvement. We’re sending prayers for him and all those working tirelessly to give him such great care, and to all those affected by the wildfires.
Louise Manson says
Thank you for the updates of the fire situation in the Northwest. I am originally from BC and my heart still yearns for the people and the land there. Burrito is and will remain in my prayers for a full and safe recovery. Sister Louise, SSJD
Louise Manson says
Many thanks for the updates of the fires in the Northwest. I am originally from BC and my heart aches for the people and the land. MY prayers will continue for Burrito for a full recovery. Sr. Louise, SSJD
Kathleen says
Dear Anthony, this left me a few tears in my ears. Thank you for keeping us current on Burrito’s situation and the fires. Life is so fragile at times. Everything can change in a blink, for worse or for the better. To the fires burning within your community, the good news is that we are finally coming to the realization that Indigenous-led conservation initiatives help in building more sustainable (and equitable) futures as they teach us how to be better land guardians and conservationists. Canada funds many Guardian programs so I hope we soon will follow suit and learn to live with the land we live on.
I haven’t stopped thinking of Burrito. He’s been in my thoughts ever since J.B. first posted the news of the snake bite. I have tried to envision the entire scene in my mind but I simply cannot begin to imagine it all. How did you ever get all six back into the chimp house when every second counted? Knowing their fear of snakes, perhaps it was easier than I think, but still, I can only imagine your fears in those moments and your strength in keeping a brave façade so the chimps would not detect your worries. And I can’t imagine going onto the Hill to locate the snake, actually finding it (how fortunate!), and seeing it was your worst fear, a rattler. And poor Mr. B readily cooperating, needing your help, while dealing with his pain and confusion. In all this commotion staff had to remain alert, coordinating everything that needed to be accomplished to ensure he’d survive, and so on and so on. I just can’t stop thinking about it all. Nothing I say can express everything I am feeling for you. I’ll just say thank you to each and everyone of you, Dr. Erin especially, for always dropping everything on a moments notice to be there for the individuals in your care. Seeing these three photos of Burrito playing poke with his fingers creates a lump in my throat the size of a tennis ball. These images say sooooo much about that sweet boy and the same about all of you. Oh the comfort of a soft touch from someone who loves you.
I know your little phoenix Burrito will rise again because he has all of you lifting him up. You place all of your energy on him, I’ll train my thoughts to the winds to cleanse the smoky air and tamp down the fires. May everyone be safe and well.
Pat M says
Building on Kathleen’s question, how do you get chimps in off the hill when needed? Do you have a call or signal of some kind? And how do you isolate the one who needs help? I assume the B-Man came in with the others since you said he voluntarily entered the isolation room. Poor guy must have felt pretty miserable. What wonderful trust these chimp people have, that if they go into that place when they’re hurting, you all will make everything better again! Thanks for all you do, all of you, and I second the motion for self-care “as much as possible.”
Linda C says
I had not noticed this initially, but was he bitten on the right hand? Because in the photos the hand looks to have changed sizes dramatically between the top photo and some of the bottom photos!
Jeani Goodrich says
I’m so glad to see Burrito sitting up. He looks kind of doofy as he sat there leaning back off balance but that’s our Burrito.. nothing like wanting to play and laugh!! The three caregivers around J.B. brought tears to my eyes. It was such an intense moment. You could feel the love and caring of Burrito by all 4 humans. And Burrito loved it!