As J.B. announced in his blog earlier this week, we have begun the process of introducing George to other chimpanzees at the sanctuary! This process is both very exciting, and a little nerve-wracking, as we all want the best for both George and his hopeful new friends. With this said, here are some great reminders to keep in mind about introductions with chimpanzees that J.B. shared earlier this week, which can help in understanding today’s video:
- It can be difficult to integrate chimpanzees social groups because they are naturally hostile or fearful toward strangers and have the capacity for intense aggression
- That said, sanctuaries and zoos do regularly integrate chimpanzees into groups, though not without challenges
- We will be following a slow, methodical approach in which George repeatedly meets all of his potential group mates one-on-one over the course of months
- These initial introductions take place in the smaller Front Rooms so that we can more easily separate them should they get into a serious fight (some fighting is to be expected)
- Conducting them in the Front Rooms, with thick plastic sheets over the windows, also reduces the influence of the other chimps during these initial meetings
- Dominance displays are common during introductions, as each chimpanzee tries to demonstrate their strength and agility. These displays actually help chimpanzees avoid fighting by exchanging information about the likely outcome of a physical altercation.
- Intense play and grooming are also common as chimpanzee get to know each other.
- We chose to begin with Cy because he has shown himself to be a gentle and caring leader who seeks to protect the underdogs in his group. Terry and Rayne were chosen as next partners due to their personalities and social skills, as we want to give George as many positive experiences meeting others before he faces potentially more difficult introductions.
- Meeting other chimpanzees one-on-one is one thing; being fully integrated into an already established group is another. George will be vulnerable, so establishing good relationships with the others, and especially with Cy, will be critical.
