One of our concerns during introductions was Willy B’s tendency to show intense food possession during mealtimes. He has a pretty intimidating presence and his original group mates Honey B and Mave often stay clear of him when they are eating. Knowing Willy B’s tendency to dominate during meals, we have been hesitant to put out forages in case it caused conflict in the newly formed group. However, with a little experimentation and a slow reintroduction to forages, we have found them to be surprisingly peaceful events so far.
Here are a few photos taken during today’s lunch forage in the greenhouses!
Honey B:
Gordo:
Mave, relaxing after her meal:
Rayne:
Willy B:
It makes me wonder if Willy was deprived of enough food earlier in life and the only way to get it was to bully others and steal? He seems to cooperate with the schemes you put in place to get him to behave nicely….does he still get his apple? Good to know that the forages worked well….it must be such a nice enrichment experience for them. Thank you for the great photos as always…..I never tire of seeing their sweet chimpiness.
I think it’s just a chimpy thing. Jamie does it too
I had a dog who did it.
Hi Anna!
I’m glad to hear that it is all working out well. It must be more exciting for them to be able to do forages.
You guys always seem to catch Gordo’s pictures right when his eyes make his face look funny! 🙂
It looks as if your unseasonably warm weather is going to stick around for a spell. How fortunate for the chimps (and bovines too!). Perfect greenhouse forage weather. I hope Willy B can continue to contain his excitement over food, especially during the thrill of a wild forage. We don’t want another scar on that handsome face!
I am curious about the printed material that Raynie has in the grip of her teeth. Is she offering housekeeping advice to her human employees?
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