Each day after cleaning the chimpanzees’ enclosures, we set out a couple of baskets of new enrichment (toys, magazines, clothing, blankets, etc.). Aside from a couple of obvious favorites – Jamie and her cowgirl boots, Foxie and her troll dolls – it’s somewhat hard to predict what will be of interest to the chimps. A few days ago Burrito grabbed these flamingo boxers (courtesy of volunteer Becca) and initiated some crazy play with his caregivers.
It’s important to distinguish Burrito’s play with these boxer shorts from chimpanzees you might see in movies or on TV wearing clothes. Chimpanzees who “work” in the entertainment industry are often duct-taped into clothing and forced, through physical intimidation or abuse, to perform. (Check out Executive Director Sarah’s informative blog post on this topic here.) Burrito, on the other hand, is not forced to do anything. We work every day to give Burrito and the rest of the Cle Elum Seven as much choice as possible, and we love to see what choices they make.
The second picture is priceless. Burrito’s such a sweet boy with his boxers. 🙂
Burrito …you have captured my heart!
I laughed out loud at every one! I’m glad Mr. B found so many ways to enjoy them 🙂
Love these! Made me laugh out loud too!
ahh burrito! you have captured my heart as well xo
Thanks for sharing this since it answers a question I have had for a while about captive chimps being allowed to do “unnatural” things such as playing with clothes, shoes, dolls. It comes down to that all important one word: choice. It also reminds me that I shouldn’t feel guilty about being entertained by the antics of chimps, but only if they are doing something they choose to do not something they have been forced to do.
Burrito has his own style to explore and I imagine the interest in the shorts did not last long! Thanks Elizabeth, it is fun to watch him whatever he does!!
Hysterical!! Sort of like watching my hubby getting dressed for bed at night!!
Excellent pics of Mr. B. I think the last pic is going to have to be my new wallpaper on my monitor!!
Oh Burrito! This brought tears to my eyes! So funny & touching! Love it.
Who’s that masked chimp?
Very funny and cute, in such a holistic and natural way. This is of course, another priceless post 🙂
They duct tape the clothes to them?? How in the hell do they get them off without pulling most of their hair out?? That is just horrible and just one more reason to be an advocate for chimpanzees in the entertainment industry!
Thank-you for always reminding us and the world what really goes on when we see chimps “dressed up” against their will! 🙁
Adorable and funny Burrito and thank god, he has a choice!!
Seriously, no one can warm up my heart like Burrito What an amazing guy he is. You’re working those boxers Burrito. 😉