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.
The loveable, goofy, neatball is growing on me
Terry! Love that big, freckled teddy bear! He’s just such a sweetheart.
Two years ago today, the CSNW featured couplets about “Teeny Tiny Terry”. In the spirit of that poetic offering, I offer the following profundity:
Teeny Tiny Terry,
as friendly as can be,
Saying “howdy” to his caregivers
with many a ripe raspberry.
Sweet Terry, can so easily put a smile on my face. I love hearing his raspberries before I even see him! He’s the head chief of the welcoming committee!
The blissful berryniss of Terry. I guess if someone new is learning to identify the chimps they could start by listening for Terry.
Thank you for letting us in on Terry’s Super Power. Here I was thinking his melodious raspberry blowing was his secret weapon but now we know it’s his big sweet heart. Followed by that friendly floofy freckly face!