While the caregivers were preparing breakfast, Burrito and his family set out on their first patrol of the day.
Sometimes patrolling is serious business, like when there are strangers on the property or unusual animal noises coming from the hillside above. But most are a more laid back affair, with the object being to enjoy some fresh air, climb as many structures as possible along the way, and, occasionally, grab the feet of the person ahead of you.
In this video you can see Burrito selecting his stick of the day, which he then carries back with him to the chimp house. I remember working for days to clean up all of the slash debris from the trees we cut down to create the extended fence line. Thank goodness I gave up trying to get it all. Clearly these are some great sticks! Ultimately, these end up along with Jamie’s library of well-worn-but-still-clean-enough-to-keep books on the windowsill between the playroom and the kitchen.
Paula Griffith says
Good stick! If chimps and dogs collect sticks, it is surely a good thing. I hope to begin a good stick collection tomorrow.
Linda C says
Is the stick just to chew on, JB?
Just as I was worried about Ms Fox, I saw her. It must have taken a minute to put on the adventure pants!
In all of the videos I’ve seen of patrols, I’ve never seen anyone play “got your toes!” with Jamie. Does that ever happen on a patrol?
J.B. says
The stick is just something to hold in his mouth, like he does with the wooden toys. Jamie tends to be more serious on patrols…I’m sure she’s been playful at some point but it’s usually Missy or Burrito that starts to goof around.
Linda C says
Missy, Burrito…and Foxie?
Thanks, JB
Marcia says
This is the first time I’ve seen the view from between the enclosures. I’ve been waiting for that. it’s an interesting perspective as I expected.
will there perhaps be a video someday of interesting interactions between the two groups across the divide?
J.B. says
We thought the groups would interact but to be honest they don’t really pay much attention to one another outside. Gordo likes to try to get the attention of the girls nbext door but they ignore him.
Marcie says
A beautiful peaceful video, thanks JB.
Kathleen says
Well that was a relaxing patrol. Beautiful scenery. Thanks for letting us follow along! But my favorite part is the photo of the collection shelf. Love the way Burrito found a new, natural, enrichment item to enjoy.
Eli says
It just fills my heart to see them out exploring, climbing, patroling, doing all of the things they never had the opportunity to do in the lab for so many years. Of course, Neggie staying inside (presumably) in a nice cozy nest fills my heart, too.
I love Jamie’s expression. She clearly takes her patrols quite seriously.
Karen says
I wonder if the Cys group patrol like this?
And, another thing I wonder about – are Jamies group still climbing the trees ?
Kathleen says
I have been wondering the exact same thing. Is Missy still climbing up the cedar trees, and has anyone else joined in lately?
J.B. says
No, they aren’t really interested in climbing the trees, which is pretty much as we expected. This is largely true for adult chimps at other North American sanctuaries as well. But the do provide some much needed shade!
Marya says
Love this video and others’ comments, including your answers, JB. I also wondered about Gordo’s group and who goes out. I realize that Mave and Dora haven’t been out, their prerogative, of course. Any of the others in that group that don’t go out? I’d also have expected more at least vocal interaction between the two groups if they’re out simultaneously so it’s surprising to me that they don’t pay attention to each other. On the other hand, it’s wonderful that they obviously don’t feel threatened by the other group or there would be all manner of screaming and posturing. Will Jamie still get to chase the gator?
Linda C says
Looks like Jamie can only race the gator 3/4 of the way…no more racing on the downhill home stretch :pensive: (from this video, looks like they can walk but not drive between the areas).
Honey B has only ventured out to slap someone. Honey B don’t care…..:smile:
J.B. says
Hi Marya! Dora has been out but Mave won’t let her do that anymore. It’s unfortunate but we hope that with time Mave will start to relax and at least let Dora venture out, even if she’s not comfortable. We expected a lot more excitement when the two groups were allowed out at the same time but there was almost zero reaction! It appears both groups are comfortable in their own territories. Jamie still chases the Gator on occasion – there was a blog post from a few weeks ago showing this (it was a Friday).
Marya says
Thanks for your comments, JB. It’s unfortunate that Mave won’t allow Dora to venture forth very much. And it’s surprising to me since I think Mave has much Buddha-energy (look at some of those sitting poses, eyes closed, arms folded, lilac snippet in hand). Maybe she’ll outgrow the need to keep Dora from going out as she becomes more secure herself. I’m so glad the groups can be out together without fanfare.