I’m not sure when it happened, but autumn is here. The green summer grass on Young’s Hill has turned yellow and the temperatures have cooled a little. It’s hard to believe we’re approaching our second winter on the hill. As of now, though, the days are still warm, so the chimpanzees are enjoying lots of time outside. This morning we scattered chow (protein biscuits) on the hill to encourage some outdoor activity.
Annie:
Foxie brought a couple of troll dolls with her, including a blue-haired one that volunteer caregiver Katelyn gave her yesterday:
Missy:
Jody:
It really doesn’t get old seeing the chimps explore Young’s Hill as a group. For the most part, they seem comfortable enough out there now to split up, but occasionally they travel together. Here’s Jamie in the foreground, and Foxie and Burrito in the background approaching each other for a greeting:
In this photo Jamie is kissing Foxie’s back in greeting. This is a common greeting for Jamie and is often accompanied by a pant grunt vocalization. (Jamie often greets Burrito this way, much to Burrito’s horror – he’s still pretty intimidated by her.)
But he doesn’t let that get in the way of having a good time:
do you think they might be more active on the hill this year having had a full spring, summer and fall where they enjoyed YH? i know they tolerate snow to a point, and they are not big on rain, but to have enjoyed the outside for such nice long run. will be interesting to see.
It’s great that the weather has held out this long for them. Although, I hear it might be changing this week; down to the mid 60’s during the day. I’m getting out my electric blanket. Brrrrr!!!