Today, Negra had a nice, quiet lunch by herself in the greenhouse. Afterwards, her family came to spend the afternoon with her.
It was a hot afternoon, but pleasant under the diffuse light of the greenhouse. While Annie and Missy groomed Negra, Foxie played with one of her dolls, pausing at times to pass it to her caregivers.
Jamie has been a good sport about these afternoons with Negra. We are trying to navigate the risks of Negra falling or being injured in a fight by restricting these whole-group visits to the greenhouse and Young’s Hill and to times between meals. As many of you know, Jamie doesn’t like having any limitations placed upon her. This is a face that says I am approaching the limits of my patience.
I found it difficult to take photos of Missy and Annie grooming because Missy kept leaving Annie and putting her back against the caging for me to groom. There’s something about the upper level in the greenhouse that elicits more socialization between the chimps and their caregivers. Because the wall panels are only off in the warmer months, these daily invitations from Missy to groom are essentially seasonal. I was happy to oblige, as long as Annie was still included.
Missy is the kind of chimp that grooms up the hierarchy. I see her directing her grooming toward Jamie, Negra, and Burrito most often. When she is being groomed by Annie, she sometimes reciprocates, but she also tends to focus more on herself. Here she is using a wood chip as a grooming tool.
The chimps have different levels of tolerance for having their photos taken. Burrito and Foxie will do their best to knock the phone out of my hand, while Missy will let me hold the phone in her face for hours on end without complaint.
She showed the same level of tolerance for me today, but interestingly, that tolerance did not extend to me taking photos near Negra. The chimps certainly know that Negra is in a more fragile state and Missy, being protective, responded with a threat bark the first time I pulled my phone out next to Negra. It’s nice to know Negra has so many friends looking out for her.
Aw, that’s sweet that Missy is looking out for Neggie! And that she likes you enough yo request the grooming.
But that leaves the question….who grooms Annie?
I find that so sweet. No camera protection.
Good post and great photos to accompany it! I was surprised to learn that (1) Missy does not usually groom Annie when Annie is grooming Missy. (2) Missy sits still for the camera during closeups! (3) And a little surprised that Missy barked at you for trying to photograph poor Negra. But she is Dr. Missy after all and everyone must follow doctors orders!
I hope Jamie can tolerate the changes. I would guess Negra’s condition has her concerned and perhaps a little worried. Hopefully Jamie will realize that the restrictions placed on her are far simpler than the restrictions Negra is dealing with. Just seeing Negra’s strength to keep doing her best should inspire and soften even our lovable stubborn Boss.
Good post and great photos to accompany it! I was surprised to learn that (1) Missy does not usually groom Annie when Annie is grooming Missy. (2) Missy sits still for the camera during closeups! (3) And a little surprised that Missy barked at you for trying to photograph poor Negra. But she is Dr. Missy after all and everyone must follow doctors orders!
I hope Jamie can tolerate the changes. I would guess Negra’s condition has her concerned and perhaps a little worried. Hopefully Jamie will realize that the restrictions placed on her are far simpler than the restrictions Negra is dealing with. Just seeing Negra’s strength to keep doing her best should inspire and soften even our lovable stubborn Boss.
I had to laugh hearing that Missy barked at you :laughing:
but sweet to know that she is protective. And heartwarming that the others understand Negra’s limited mobility and hang out with her. I hope she’s not getting overgroomed!