Grooming is so important in chimpanzee social groups.
Grooming is used to build and strengthen relationships, to reconcile after conflicts, and to reinforce the social hierarchy.
While George is still not comfortable grooming his group mates, he often finds himself in the middle of grooming trains.
We all look forward to the day that George returns the favor, and starts grooming his group mates.
In the meantime, his new family will continue to include him in this important ritual.
George is such a lucky guy!
Cmon, George!
Krissy, how do you interpret that face Cy makes at about 0:53?
Yes! I was curious about that as well. It’s like an “ouchie” face like he groomed himself too hard or pulled off a scab? Interesting indeed!
I think he was working ip to a yawn. we dont see the actual yawn because Dora passes by at that moment. It is definitely a funny face!
It was an odd one! Thanks, Krissy!
George just doesn’t know what to do. He should eventually figure it out.
I’m glad no one minds that George doesn’t groom back. It’s as if they understand and they are just going to continue what they do and accept George where he’s at. But it is interesting George will groom caregivers.
George always seems/looks uncomfortable when being groomed. He closes himself up, folded arms, withdrawn etc. He still has thee cutest face though.
George appears to me to be submissive in this clip, rather than enjoying the experience. Do you have video of the first time he was groomed at the sanctuary? I’m curious about his initial reaction.
Teresa, You can see George’s first groomings on the August 17, 25 and November 24th blogs. He looks uncomfortable.
thank you Debbie! No, George is definitely not comfortable grooming. And he definitely had more hair on his arms when he arrived at the sanctuary. Hopefully he will be able to relax with this ritual. So many adjustments!
So lovely to see Dora and Cy grooming George and seemingly accepting that he didn’t reciprocate. Darling George looked very uncomfortable and almost sad somehow. Do you think it’s a trust thing or an insecurity issue with George? Yes, it is interesting that he will groom his caregivers. Hopefully in time George will reach out to his chimp buddies and feel that special bonding of grooming.He is a star.??:fire:???
Oh my, those question marks were meant to be hearts :sparkling_heart:?:sparkling_heart:!