I’ve got my hands full today processing a whole bunch of produce that Safeway gave to us this morning. They’ve been wonderful and are setting aside produce that they pull from their stock each day – most of it has only slight blemishes.I wanted to be sure to tell everyone that the chimpanzees are now in the big playroom. The stairs were secured this morning and we did a thorough check of the area. The actual “release” into the play area was fairly mellow. I think that the group was fairly uncertain about going into that big space. Once in, however, they settled in pretty quickly. Missy almost immediately began nesting, and when she saw Annie making a nest in another spot, Missy took her blankets and made her bed right next to Annie’s. Jamie is checking out everything and, as predicted, especially likes to look through the window into the human kitchen. She’s pretty excited about Safeway’s generous produce gifts and is watching me intently as I wash strawberries, carrots, potatoes, melons, apples, radishes, and organic lettuce. When Foxie went into the play area, she was clearly a little wary, and she spent at least 20 minutes just walking around the perimeter of the inside of the room, checking everything out. Although there’s a sturdy set of stairs now in the play area to get to the loft and catwalk (mostly for the benefit of humans), Negra has decided to use the railing instead, chimpanzee-style. It’s great to see her do this and I look forward to reporting more new behaviors and acrobatic prowess from all. I’ll post photos as soon as I can! Diana
Kindree says
How exciting! I can just see Negra climbing up the “wall” to get up to the loft. I can’t wait to see pictures! Thanks for keeping us so updated.
Shelly Knapp says
Awesome!! Diana your updates make my whole day!!! I love it! Wish I could tightly hug every one of them and kiss ’em on the cheek!!!
MaryW says
I’ve just found your blog and site after seeing the amazing news on King 5 tv. Thanks so much for posting photos and keeping us updated. It’s wonderful to hear that they’re adjusting so quickly!
Looking forward to following their new adventures,
Mary
Jennifer says
It’s so wonderful to be able to see these chimps finally in a great environment! I just happen to find out about this sanctuary on craigslist and I am so glad that I did. I have always been fascinated with these animals and am so glad to see that these 7 were given a better life here in Washington! I will continue to read up on them and hopefully soon will be able to get up that way and donate to them. It is so truely wonderful that they will have a better life here.
Chris says
Hello All,
I am the Produce Manager at Safeway in Cle Elum and I have to say I love the idea that we “my produce team” are helping feed the lovely 7. Can’t wait to see them and there new home. Thank you J.B. for coming to us and letting us help you and the chimps. Here’s to many years helping the 7.