Missy is a chimps’ chimp. She much prefers the company of her chimpanzee family to that of any of her caregivers. Once in awhile she honors us with some attention, but she is hilariously aloof in most of her interactions with humans. On the rare occasion that she plays with a caregiver, she typically has a “I’m a little embarrassed for you right now” look on her face. Which, of course, makes her all the more charming.
More Positive Reinforcement Training Progress
Our Positive Reinforcement Training (PRT) program is coming along nicely. (Learn about PRT and how it helps the chimpanzees in this blog post from last year.)
Here’s a video of Diana and Jamie’s session this afternoon.
Jamie-ween 2016, Told in Twenty-one Spooky Photos and One Terrifying Video
Jamie, the birthday girl:
Negra:
Missy:
Jody:
Foxie:
Annie:
Burrito:
It Doesn’t Take Much
We give the chimpanzees all kinds of toys to play with each day, but sometimes something as simple as a cardboard box does the trick.
Making the Most of It
Occasionally we offer the chimpanzees some sugar-free gum as a treat. Some of them swallow it right away, but Foxie likes to savor hers.
Rainy Day? Time to Play
It’s a gray, rainy day in Cle Elum but Foxie and Jamie are keeping themselves entertained inside. (Make sure your volume is up for some great breathy chimp laughter starting around 0:40.)
The Simple Things
Savoring a creamy avocado next to a sunny window must be one of life’s greatest pleasures, and I can’t think of anyone more deserving than sweet Annie.
