10 months ago, George arrived at the sanctuary. Now, he lives with six other chimpanzees full-time and lives an entirely different life.
The other day, I caught George in an epic play session with Dora, which led to one with Gordo, then Rayne, then Cy, then Gordo, then Cy, then Rayne….. and so on.
George was truly spoiled for choice.
Oh, I’m so happy to see him playing and being popular! Maybe Gordo will now be comfortable playing with Cy. It looks like he isn’t at the moment, because once Cy comes, he backs off.
George, they’re going to groom your arms clean off!:smile:
I hope everyone got some gum
It’s amazing how well this has developed. I’m sure that George still has lessons to learn, but the carefully managed integration has given him a whole new life, and by those lovely play faces, everyone is having a great time. Now, the next step is for George to groom the others…….watch this space!
Look at them go!!! For all of the people who say that chimps from an entertainment background are “too humanized” and “need humans” and can never be happy with their own kind…. The proof is right here! From never living in a family group, from never living with another male, to playing with his family like he’s been doing this his whole life! George has come so far!
What a delightful sight, everybody wants to play with the new kid. Thanks for sharing, Jenna.
Ive wondered what kind of impact George has had on the group as a whole. Like, are there fewer conflicts with George than before or is it the same? He seems like a jolly fellow who would have a calming factor over the entire troop. Maybe its just wishful thinking on my part and there is no difference but I would think George’s presence has been very positive for the group.
How cute George is, gently trying to play with Dora. And then Gordo comes along. Oh those happy play faces!! Especially Gordo’s. And that droopy lip on Cy. What fun for everyone!
Gordo’s interaction with George sort of reminded me of Mave’s happiness with Dora. Speaking of Dora, it doesn’t seem as if she’s 100% sure about George. Or maybe she’s unsure when others join and play with him? Dora seemed willing to exit as soon as Gordo joined in and then she sat on the sidelines, stone faced, as everyone got silly.
Dora being Dora. Looking backnon it, in the videos we’ve seen, she’s a 1 on 1 type ehen it comes to play. When you think about it, a lot of them are. Because if you get more than two or three involved, things might get rough and your back isn’t covered. Other than “chase”, I’m trying to think of a time when I saw three playing together. It has been a while. Usually two are playing together and Interrupting Mave or Interrupting Annie comes along.
Cy looked like a referee :martial_arts_uniform:
I love seeing this new side of Gordo! He seemed to me to be rather aloof but now seems to enjoy being with George. So happy for both of them. So happy for all of them!
What a great play session!
I really love seeing Cy be so goofy. Way to go George. :revolving_hearts:
Thank you, thank you, thank you all for taking George in. He looks so happy and content. So glad he can live out the rest of his life being wanted!