J.B. and I have been monitoring the chimps on the security cameras since the integration. We’re not watching them all the time, but we have a couple of iPads on after hours so we can take a look if we hear anything. It’s been interesting to see the changes in where the chimpanzees bed down for the night.
Initially, after the first few months of the integration, Honey B, Mave, and Willy B would sleep together in the front room area with the other group of six scattered about. At some point, this changed. I can’t say for sure, but I believe it was Mave who made the first integration move, choosing to make a nest in the catwalk of the Lupine Playroom near some of her new friends. From the other group, I saw Rayne on a couple of occasions nesting in the front rooms with Honey B, Willy B. and Mave or just Honey B and Willy B.
After a few months, I noticed that Willy B would start his nesting in the front rooms, but at some point in the night, he would make his way to the Mezzanine. Now, he disappears into the playrooms. This is all part of the integration process and one that is happening on their own timeline and based on nuances in their relationships and personalities that are a bit of a mystery.
Honey B has always liked the cubby in the mezzanine, and she is a woman of routine who knows what she likes. Given the happenings in the video I put together today, we’ll just see how things shake out.
Linda C says
Thanks for the laugh, Diana!
Her new nickname is Tenacious B!
Diana says
that’s a very good nickname for her :heart_eyes:
Tobin says
The politics of bedfellows, strange and sisterly. Oh, the suspense! I guess that Beezie just didn’t feel the need to spend her evening entertaining a houseguest.
What surprised me even more was the absence of Mora. I just assumed that the Mora compound must be maintained 24/7. Alas, perhaps Maeve had a social engagement that evening with Gordo.
Diana says
I was going to comment in the “lack of Mora”. I find it curious too! we shall see how the sleeping areangements continue to evolve.
Maureen says
No, Rayne! Wait! Come back! I adore Ms. Honey B, but Rayne was holding her own so calmly. And of course props to Honey B, too, for remaining calm. I hope you’ll follow up on this, J.B., and let us know how it plays out. Utterly fascinating!
Marya says
Ah, the politics of the cubbies and corners! Thanks for sharing this interesting and enjoyable video. I’m glad there wasn’t a kerfuffle over that spot. I’ve learned a lot about the importance of nesting from the chimps and find them to be wonderful role models that have given me great (especially winter) ideas about my own nesting choices!
Diana says
me too, Marya! i think about my own nests and the nests for our pups and cat too. Each of us has our individual proclivities.
Gaynell says
While i do not take a box to bed, a nice blanket and magazine are all I need to make my nest. i think that makes me a Dora. Get it, I adore her.:wink:
Tami Roy says
what a great video! i had no idea there was so much drama involved in their bedding down for the night! i love watching them build their nests. Who is the best nest builder?
Nancy Duryea says
Diana, I really loved this video., it is so interesting to see all the different ways they can make their nests. I can’t imagine that lying on some rumpled up magazine pages would be very comfortable but who knows. I must confess that I am so happy Honey B got her space back in the cubby. I was also thinking that it must be fun to be able to watch some of the shenanigans that go on there when everyone leaves.
Kim Harris says
I believe we all assumed Mora would be together during the evenings. Looks like a few more cubby holes would go over well! If Honey B is anything, she is tenacious, lol. Looks like they are bedded down by 6pm; is this their typical bedtime? What time do they normally wake? I know Neggie is often still all cozy when y’all get there in the mornings.
marianne says
I was also wondering about the time they go to sleep, but I assume they go with sun-down and sun-rise…..???
J.B. I know you have nothing on your hands right now !!??:joy: how about you just extend this cubby to queensize; there is space to the right as far as I could see…then everybody can be happy!
Susan Kathleen Feeley says
I love this video and the strategies at play with these amazing & very persistent Chimpanzees. A while ago I requested clips of the chimps nighttime activity and you really hit the mark. Thankyou!
Kathleen says
I just loved this. Your commentary was so funny! And what about Dora?! She was so understanding of the cubby situation and in the end, she did alright for herself. Dora absconded with the blankets Honey B dragged in for her nest. I couldn’t stop myself from constantly glancing over at her cute little shape, all curled up and cozy in her well prepared nest.
Talk about understanding, Honey B was downright generous sharing her favorite place with Rayne. Before the integration, who would have guessed it? Diana, please keep us posted on Honey B’s cubby saga. (I’m rooting for Honey B to keep her cubby.)
Heather Grant says
hi. i love the vids and blogs, thank you for that! i noticed they are bedding down by 4:30. why so early? how long do they sleep for? do they ever cuddle up together or just solitary sleepers? Thanx
Deanna says
Loved the video and the commentary was great!!! Proud of Miss B for electing to make her nest next to Raynie and snuggle rather than start something. I guess in the end Rayne decided the cubby was not so special afterall?? Kinda wonder where she decided to nest that was bettervtgan the cubby???
Very fun video! Thanks!
Linda C says
I think it moment when she realized she wasn’t going to be able to stretch out comfortably! :laughing: