All three greenhouses feel like early summer today and all sixteen chimpanzees have been soaking it up. Birdsong is returning to the sanctuary, the squirrels are up from their long winter’s naps and slowly surveying the world again, and the tiny winged beings are starting to stir. And I saw green grass!
Foxie and Orange Blossom enjoying the morning sunny spot in the greenhouse post-breakfast:
Jamie and I set off around the hill after breakfast and on our way back I spotted Annie, basking in the bright morning sun:
As my gaze drifted past Annie, I was so surprised to see none other than Queen Negra! Up on a structure, taking in the sun next to Annie. Probably willing all that spring grass to get growing tout de suite!:
Annie:
Missy’s group had a lot to say to their neighbors this morning and it created a brief stir of excitement with those on the hill who ran back inside in the hopes to get a better view.
Missy:
Burrito:
Annie:
Meanwhile, Cy seemed to be practicing his selfie game (captured by Sam). I mean, just look at this guy!:
In between the occasional game of chase with their caregivers, all of the chimpanzees have spent most of their Sunday lounging in the hot greenhouses, dozing, and grooming one another. And of course, getting a lot of reading time in (if you’re Cy or Jamie). Foxie’s group is currently heading up the hill on a stroll as I type this. They turned to look at Sam and I watching them, but in a rare instance, the humans weren’t invited. Which somehow made it all the more special, watching them heading off on their own, together. It’s a good Sunday.
Linda C says
A lovely Sunday for all, thanks, Katelyn! looking forward to the swallows and bluebirds!
As much as we see her, Orange Blossom seems to be winning the popularity contest between her and Strawberry Shortcake! That doll works double time!
Yay for spring!
tom austin says
weather in gulf coast Texas is beginning to stabilize…..weather warming to the 70’s most days………..nice to be out walking the dog which is my next chore……’till later……..
Nancy Duryea says
I was so happy to see the picture of Neggie and Annie sitting together, both are so sweet. I hope you and Sam didn’t get your feelings hurt when you were excluded from the morning patrol!
Betsy says
We in Minneapolis woke up to a winter wonderland – Christmas again! The last few months of winter are difficult, becaue you expect the best and receive the worst. It’s hard for me to understand who can see who from what vantage point, but I’m glad everyone is able to get out and about, and I can’t get enough of Cy.
Karen says
It sounds like it is starting to warm up some, I wonder when it will be possible to take down the winter panels on the greenhouses. They must miss being able to see out
Katelyn says
Karen, We probably have a couple of months still before the panels come off the greenhouses. Our spring is infamously windy and weather can still be unpredictable here in the mountains for a while yet. The greenhouses are really heating up on these sunny afternoons and thankfully, the chimpanzees have many windows and doorways from which to see outside if they want a clearer view. That said, I think it’s one of all our favorite times of the year when the panels do come off! 🙂
Paulette says
oh goodness I can FEEL the freedom of the outside, The warmth of the sun, The joy of getting out of the indoor spaces. enjoying a little me time. It’s wonderful to see them enjoying the change of season, just as we do. I wish I was with them soaking in the sun. I can feel it. That’s what you do Katelyn. You Have a way of making us feel, as if we are there. I loved today’s post. Thank you
I can’t wait for the day when all 16 have the opportunity to venture outdoors!
Katelyn says
Thank you, Paulette. We know you are all here in spirit, so it makes us happy to know you feel that way. 🙂
Kathleen says
I do believe the longer days and the warmeth of the sun has Negra gearing up for Springtime Grass Season. Bless her heart (as my mother would say). Today seems a far cry from January when everyone was cooped up inside due to the countless feet of snow. I love to see bipedal Annie, she looks so dainty, as if she is tiptoeing across the prickly grass.
Thank you Katelyn for the update and photos. I hope Missy’s group got a good long gander at the neighbors. And vice versa!
marianne says
Just the other day I was thinking about dear Foxie, and I was wondering how she was doing…..
And there she is, with her favorite doll and chewed-of ear….looking wonderful I have to say. ( I missed reading about her and Negra lately ).
Wonderful photo’s Katelyn, well done.
And I was basking in the sun this morning aswel after feeding the 12!!! barnkitties that live around here ( although there is NO Barn..)…..those early beams are the best eh??
Katelyn says
Marianne, Foxie’s doing great! Full of her usual joy and spunk. Thank you for taking good care of your local feral cat community! 🙂 There really is nothing like morning sun. My favorite time of the day.
Barbara Huljak says
Great post for sure. Spring has sprung and the chimps are off and running I think. I hope your weather is perfect for the chimps. Enjoyed the blog. Thanks you.