In free-living populations of chimpanzees, male chimps are the dominant group leaders. At the sanctuary, this is not the case. While Burrito, the only male chimpanzee in the group, acts pretty tough when he chases the females around the playroom during his wild displays, he doesn’t really understand how to be a leader, and therefore doesn’t get the same respect in return. Most of his displays end when one of the girls has had enough, and starts leading the cavalry charge against him. Foxie is probably his best friend of the group and he looks to her for a lot of reassurance. Foxie is more than happy to be the calm presence in his life that he needs, but is also ready to put him in his place if he pushes her too far.
Bonus!
More Negra on the hill this morning, because we can’t get enough!
I just love Burrito and his complicated relationship with the rest of the group. I had to smile at the part where eventually one of the females gets tired of his antics and leads a charge against him. Though he has the instinct to try and take charge, he has the good sense to realize when its time to let it go and just mellow out. I’m glad he has Foxy as a buddy to turn to for reassurance and love. Is there anything Foxy can’t do?! Its also great to see Negra being able to enjoy the outdoors and feeling comfortable with herself and her surroundings, you guys deserve so much credit for bringing these beautiful souls to happiness. Thank you.
ahhh the Brady bunch…they are so entertaining….they will always make me,smile hearing their stories.
It warms my heart that Negra is venturing out.
Foxie is just the best friend ever. Lucky Burrito, Foxie loves and supports him but also knows when to give hard love. Friends like that are the best. And Negra, sigh…… I can never see enough photos of Negra.
Not only are the photographs of the beautiful chimpanzees mesmerizing, but the story of the emotional bond which has developed between Burrito and Foxie is heartening. Once again, I am reminded that the mere eyes of the Cle Elum Seven exude more intelligence, dignity, beauty, and likability than all the sociopathic humans employed in Buck Hill, LEMSIP, the Missouri Primate Center, the Rosaire-Zeppe Roadside Sideshow Circus, and the Oval Office combined.
I loved this post and also the replies. hoots for the CE7 family!