In some ways, Burrito has had to learn to be a chimpanzee. Lab chimps don’t get many chances to act like chimps – they often don’t have access to other chimps to groom or play with, they don’t get to forage for their food, and they don’t have room to move like chimps should move. Those of them who are lucky enough to move to a sanctuary usually exhibit a learning curve; they have fears to face and skills to acquire.
One natural chimp behavior that Burrito never exhibited during his first year or two at the sanctuary was brachiating (BREAK-ee-ate-ing). This is the arm-over-arm swinging that chimps do from branch to branch in the trees. Despite never having the space to move in that way before, the other chimps all brachiated across the ceiling of the greenhouse from day 1. But not Burrito. It just didn’t seem to occur to him as an option.
And then one day, he did. We’re not sure what changed, but it was one of many steps Burrito has made on his way to chimpanzee-ness.
Bless his heart, maybe he picked it up from the ladies. I’m so glad the Seven are with you and each other!
I love Burrito!
That is interesting…….. I wonder what inspired him to finally give it a try. Observation, courage, and sanctuary! Thanks for giving Burrito this amazing second chance at life.
God Bless Him! To go on this adventure with him and will the other 6 chimps is an honor and an exciting journey! We have seen their arrival and the horrendous state they were in and have witnessed these 7 defeated chimps rise and shine, become healthy, happy, chimps who little by little have developed behaviors of wild chimps. It is in their DNA. All they needed was a chance which you guys have given them. It is such a touching story and warms our hearts.
We all LOVE and adore Burrito,