One of the ways that captive chimps entertain themselves is by attempting to thwart their caregivers’ plans. Oh, you’d like to clean this area now? That’s unfortunate for you, ’cause I just decided that I’m going to live here forever. Honey B is the master of this. If you try to sweeten the deal by putting food in a different area, she’ll run out, grab the food, then high tail it back and barrel roll through the door as it closes, Indiana Jones-style. It’s rarely wise to engage in a battle of wills with a chimpanzee, even less so once they are fully stocked with provisions.
There are days when I could swear that she arranges for Willy B and Mave to run interference while she makes a mad dash for treats.
Today we cleaned on Honey B’s schedule while Willy B soaked up some afternoon sun. He still won’t touch the grass in the courtyard if he can help it and he rarely ventures further than ten or fifteen feet from the chute.
But that seems to be enough for him for now.
As we start to consider how the other group of Waystation chimps will feel about venturing out into larger, more naturalistic enclosures, I’ve been heartened to see Gordo’s comfort level increasing.
On Wednesday I caught him napping on the grass in the greenhouse.
From the look on his face, I think he’ll really appreciate the privacy that the larger enclosures will provide.
Let’s all just stop here for a second and appreciate Rayne. She is without a doubt the best chimpanzee that I’ve ever known, just like every other chimpanzee that I’ve ever known.
The forecast is calling for showers and cooler temperatures this weekend, both of which are long overdue. We’ve had enough anxiety about fires, smoke, and rattlesnakes for one summer. Still, I can’t help wanting to hold on a little longer to these al fresco breakfasts on the hill.
Missy, Burrito, and Jody:
Negra:
Foxie:
Jamie:
Foxie, Burrito, and Missy:
Jody:
The bidding has already begun at our Hoot! For the Holidays virtual event and the live event takes place tomorrow at 6pm Pacific. Tune in to hear stories from the past and learn about our plans for the future, and bid and donate to help support the 16 chimpanzees and 4 bovines that call Chimpanzee Sanctuary Northwest home. Don’t miss it!
I’m glad you added “like every other chimp I’ve known”, JB. because I was about to say, “better than Mave!?”
so, it’s pear season?
The Boss must be over the moon!
Do any of the 6 enjoy the pears as much as Jamie?
And I love that Willy B is still taking naps outdoors…
What a fun post. You had me laughing so hard with that Indianna Jones maneuver! Honey B FTW!!
That is some photo of Ms. Honey B, love it! Eeesh, she is the master of intense expressions, cracks me up. I am thrilled to see Gordo sleeping on the grass! Oh Willy B, if you only knew how comfortable the grass is compared to the hard plank walkway, it’s much softer for resting your big beautiful head. If I could guarantee no fires, smoke, or rattlesnakes, I’d selfishly wish for the warmth of summer to linger so we can see more Young’s Hill forages.
Best of luck tomorrow at HOOT! May you surpass your goal.
I can just picture Honey B sliding through the door!!! I love that Gordo napped on the grass! Such progress in that area for him! Wonderful pics of everyone!
That opening paragraph was hilarious. You sure have a way with words, JB… and a great sense of humor.
Everytime I read about an antic of one of the chimps, I think he or she is the best. Until I read the next one. Same with pics. I see Honey B’s intelligence in her eyes and think she is the most beautiful lady ever. Then I see Rayne’s soulful gaze, and think, well, she’s also the most beautiful ever! And all the lads are so handsome, each with their own traits that make them so special. It’s a good thing we don’t have to pick, that would be impossible! Just like JB, I think each and every one is the best, the best at being themselves with their individual personalities shining. I can see how happy and content they are. Thank you to each and every one of the special people at CSNW who create a sanctuary full of love that allows their personalities to sparkle. And of course our bovine friends too, in their more laid back approach to life!
An exceptionally wonderful blog. The blogs are all wonderful like warm Summer days, but like Summer days, some days are extra special.:heart_eyes: