We often get asked why the chimps do particular things, and I always think to myself—with apologies to all you Trekkies out there—”Dammit, Jim, I’m a primatologist, not a psychoanalyst!” Primatology is largely concerned with species-wide patterns of behavior, but in sanctuaries we are dealing with individuals with unique histories and personalities. I’ve spent much of the last 25 years trying to understand chimpanzees and when it comes to explaining the behavior of individual chimps, I’m honestly not sure I’ve made much progress. It’s frustrating at times but it can also be a source of wonder and joy.
I have no idea why Negra finally decided to walk to the top of the hill, but I do know that we can never give up on the chimps in our care. Because one day, they might surprise us.
