In most groups of chimpanzees that I’ve met, there is usually at least one chimpanzee that is that “easy” chimpanzee for caregivers to get to know. There’s no need to work to earn trust or go through countless days of hazing, or even take some time to know each other. They’re just immediately your friend, from day one, no questions asked. It’s refreshing! Terry is that guy at CSNW.
Terry is a great “starter” chimp. When new volunteers take their first tour at the sanctuary, Terry and Cy (also a nice guy) are immediately available to make people feel right at home by hanging out with them through the windows of the mechanical room. If you so much as set foot through the doors near his enclosure, Terry is there, blowing raspberries to get your attention and luring you into a friendly game of chase and/or shoe tickle. When we are training Level 3 caregivers to interact safely with the chimps using protected contact, Terry is ready and willing to teach them all he knows. It’s a simple pleasure getting to know the open book that is Terry Chimpanzee.
