Introductions between Cy and Willy B’s groups have been progressing along. Today we decided to do something new and different. There are panels between the two greenhouses that provide a visual barrier between the two groups. We removed one of the panels so the two groups can now see and safely interact with each through this portal.
When the groups were given access their greenhouses, Lucky and Rayne were the first ones to notice. Rayne waited around the portal for some time, but nobody showed up. It took a while for Willy B and Mave to realize there was a panel missing. As with new things, a lot of excitement can happen. Usually a lot of screaming and displaying. Surprisingly, there wasn’t as much as we expected. There was mostly positive interactions.
The paneling is located on the second story of the greenhouses, so getting photos up there is almost impossible especially in the winter when the outside paneling is up to keep the chimpanzees warm. I was able to catch a couple of photos from the ground floor of Willy B during one of his displays.
Here are some bonus photos of Gordo and Cy enjoying some snow snacks!
Here we go! The challenge of who will be king has begun! Thank you for the photos, Chad!
New and different is good! When I read “Rayne waited around the portal for some time, but nobody showed up.” my heart softened and I giggled. Curious, dear Rayne. I feel almost as excited as Willy B over this change.
Oh I have so many questions and perhaps you can sneak in answers in future posts. When you say the two groups can now “safely interact with each other” I am assuming this means they can poke their fingers through the steel mesh and tickle or groom each other, correct? And will you leave this portal open all the time now, even during the night, or will you open it up now and then as a special treat? And lastly, Did Rayne ever get to see one of the three and if so did she, or any of them, actually interact with each other (besides Willy B’s marvelous display!)?
This seems like great progress! Very exciting.
Have all the seven started to enjoy snow treats now?
This is excited but really hard to visualize. Do you have a blueprint or drawing to show where this portal is?
Oh gosh unexpected company. Did anyone display back to Willy B?
This is exciting news, I look forward to updates.
Great blog Chad, thank you.
I have to share a secret with everyone and I dare not say it outloud: I cannot help but laugh out loud when Willy B. or Jamie or anybody else is displaying…I think it is such a hilarious show and I find it endearing at the same time. I especially love those puckerd lips showing their pink insides.
Like a little child screaming: I am a big girl/boy too you know. And when it’s over, it is over; just sitting here eating something….
And I write this with my heart full of love for all the residents of the sanctuary.
Happy Solstice everyone!
keeping things new and interesting!!! good times!!!