Almost ten years ago our blog featured a video from former staff member and current volunteer, Elizabeth. On that day, the Cle Elum Seven had access to the hill and took advantage of the nice weather. Missy and Burrito could be seen very content running around the hill and enjoying the rays of sunshine. With a Winter Weather Advisory in our afternoon forecast that extends through the next few days, Young’s hill is looking quite different today. This year, winter has been snowier than before and the snow accumulation is significantly higher on and around the hill. Before we give them access to the hill the lead caregiver has to do a perimeter check. This is to make sure the fences are looking and working appropriately. These past few days perimeter checks involve bundling up and snowshoes. I had personally never snowshoed before, but this caregiver born and raised in a tropical island finds it very, very fun. Highly recommend as a winter activity.
Last week us caregivers went into the hill to shovel paths for the chimps to wander around the hill with ease, only to receive more snow a couple days later. Snow accumulation doesn’t stop the chimps from going out, climbing structures, and grabbing snow to snack on in the comfort of the heated indoor enclosures. But today the chimps opted to stay in, nest, play with caregivers, and groom each other.
Sweet, sweet Dora
Honey B’s big yawn while nesting in her favorite spot, the mezzanine’s cubby
Sir Willy B
A Cy close up
Jamie in action, about to swing off the top platform of the green house