Some chimps love to play with their human friends. Think Burrito, Cy, Terry. Others are less interested in human interaction, for different reasons.
Annie and Gordo are two of these chimps.
I don’t often get to interact with Annie. She tends to be a nervous chimp, and it seems like she is a little uncomfortable about interactions at the mesh caging. Most of my interactions with Annie have happened with a window between us. I jump at these opportunities!
Gordo likes to play chase with his human friends. But you have to be paying attention to his cues, because they are quite subtle. On this occasion, Diana had been playing with Willy B (another chimp that engages less often with caregivers) and Gordo wanted to play, too. So I attempted to entertain Gordo. Unfortunately, he wasn’t into it. I tried a few different methods, with little success. Until I tried, what I like to call, “I’m gonna get you” (one of Burrito’s favorite games!). Gordo loved it, and laughed so hard Diana could hear him throughout the building!
I hope you enjoy today’s video of me with Annie and Gordo, playing on their terms!
Oh, this blog got me totally in the feels today! Sweet kiss from Annie, what fun with Gordo! I’ll be smiling for awhile yet.
Oh, good to hear Gordito laughing loud!
Try a straight finger tap with Annie instead of a fist…I notice she always dies that, like she’s ready to bang on a piano!
How sweet. Thanks for sharing.
There’s nothing as sweet as chimp laughter, and Gordo was obviously having a wonderful time. And maybe beautiful Annie doesn’t want to engage so often, but a big kiss from her is well worth the wait.
I found your interaction with Annie to be so very special. When she mimics the circular motion of your hand, she was so in sync with you. And the kiss through the glass. All the more precious because a moment like this isn’t commonplace with dear Annie.
Gordo definitely enjoyed your game of “I’m gonna get you”. He was having so much fun keeping away from you!
I can only try to imagine what it must feel like to have these exceptional individual experiences with the chimps. Lucky you!!
Both Annie and Gordo in a playful mood, it made for a fun video.
I love seeing the chimps chimps decide to engage in a little play with their caregivers. It just fills my heart to see precious Annie and handsome Gordo having fun.
Double ditto every comment! I just feel so happy right now!!