It has officially been one week (!) since Kelsi opened the final door that separated Honey B’s group and Lucky’s group. Like she wrote in yesterday’s blog, the staff over the last year have worked extremely hard to provide these two groups with tools to succeed through months of smaller introductions. The true credit, though, goes to the chimps as we watch them work hard to build the relationships and trust that is needed for the foundation of one cohesive group of nine chimpanzees.
The emotions of this last week have hit all the apes here in the chimp house, but taking things day-by-day has allowed us to better manage these emotions and has also provided us the ability to celebrate the little wins along the way. So, one week down and so far so good is something to celebrate indeed!
No matter the day, sometimes it really is the little things that can bring the most happiness – whether it be a moment of play between Dora and Mave, catching Negra asleep cuddled up under her blankets, or Jamie looking you in the eyes with her all-knowing gaze. These moments can take your breath away.
Terry and Mave sharing a sweet moment of grooming in the Oakwood Greenhouse this afternoon.
Lucky relaxing in the Oakwood Greenhouse.
And, on the other side of the chimp house, Jamie is still always watching. 🙂
And often kicking back, relaxing, and making sure her caregivers are staying on task.
