A frequent question we get asked is how we know when one of our residents wants something specific or when they want one of us to do something with them. While this definitely gets easier as you get to know them better, and it’s never a perfect science, we are often able to determine what a chimp is looking for in how and where they are gesturing.
For example- if Burrito or Gordo are trying to get you to play a game of chase with them, they will look at you and then run away! We would also watch for behavioral indicators of play that include a play face, foot stomp, and exaggerated movements. If Jamie is wanting a specific pair of boots, she will often stand in the playroom loft and gesture through the kitchen door. She will continue to gesture until you bring back the right pair (no matter how many wrong pairs you offer her first) and then she will likely either come down to take it or she will take off for the hill- which is a sign that she wants you, and said boot, to come with her on her patrol. She also sometimes wants you to wear the specific boot instead of carry it… no matter the size. I would like to take this moment to formally apologize to my coworkers (*ahem* Sofia) that have had to squeeze their feet into my toddler-feet sized boots. Y’all are troopers. 🙂
Lately, though, Jamie has been all about raspberries and frozen treats- which are a hit with everyone. Check out the video for more!
Negra enjoying the cool morning on Young’s Hill.
Annie looking particularly beautiful in the morning light of the Greenhouse.
Cy being his dreamy self.
CeeCee says
Wow, what a fun video ! Thanks for sharing.
I am so jealous of you getting to be Jamie’s helper, I really can’t think of anything much better.
After this video, popsicles are all I can think of on this hot day, They really makes them look good. maybe a new Auction item ? “Terry & Annie’s popsicles” I know I’d make a bid.:wink:
So I’m off to enjoy a popsicle with my dogs, who enjoy pupsicle’s, Yes its a thing, look for them in the stores.:revolving_hearts:
Tobin says
Thank you, Grace, for making today a delicious one for Jamie, Annie, Cy and Terry. And, thank you as well for posting the photograph of my dear Neggie. I am so glad to see the Queen outside in the relatively cool morning air, surveying her realm.
Bill says
vids are so appreciated. just copyrighted the word chimpsicles. is it possible to put videos in landscape mode?
Bill says
video’s are so welcome & appreciated. just copyrighted the word chimpsicles:smile: is it possible to get videos in landscape mode?
Linda C says
Thanks, Grace!
Annie *always* looks beautiful! Nice of her to scootch closer for the video! And it was great to see Terry savor his!
Kathleen says
Jamie is easy to understand. Especially when her favorite raspberry plants are strategically planted right across from her viewing station! And the popsicles look and sound so scrumptious and refreshing. What fun seeing Annie (she’s such a beauty, never ceases to amaze me), Cy, and Terry enjoying their summer treats. Thanks for the video and the bonus photos. (My day becomes brighter when I see Negra)
Marya says
What fun to watch popsicles being relished — gotta love those smacking sounds. And raspberries for the Boss, of course. I love seeing videos and photos of the chimps outdoors on patrol, on climbing structures or sitting in the breeze just surveying their territory, living their best possible lives. What a gift to wake up to for me today! Thanks, Grace. (P.S. Maybe someone could give Jamie some rubber boots so she can participate in cleaning their indoor areas! Or, I mean, directing others on how to do it properly!)
Paulette says
How do the chimps deal with sticky stuff? I see the Popsicles dripping and I just think “sticky.” I know they can lick their hands but I’m sure they step in it and it’s running down their chins and dripping on their legs. So that’s what popped into my head. Sticky! Perhaps the others lick it off during grooming? Well, now that I think of it, lots of things they eat are sticky as well. So I’m sure they get sticky stuff every day. So…? you can add that to your list of questions to answer.
Dawn Durbin says
Thoroughly enjoyed watching the chimps enjoy their popsicles! They take their time to enjoy the sweet treat ~ just like I do each night in the summer! Much different from the way my canine friends eat theirs (chomp,chomp,swallow).