All Negra wants is a quiet life. Some people live for drama and excitement, but Negra’s not interested in any of that nonsense. She stays out of group conflicts, she keeps to herself, and she surrounds herself with comfort and warmth.
In Need of Nothing
Jamie is a restless soul. She’s rarely at ease. That isn’t to say she isn’t happy; she just requires near constant attention and enrichment. We could probably use an entire extra caregiving staff just to fulfill Jamie’s complex social needs.
But once in awhile the stars align and we find Jamie in a moment of peace, wanting nothing from us. During a break in cleaning this morning, I took the camera out to the greenhouse. I found everyone except for Jamie on the wooden platform, resting or grooming. I didn’t see Jamie anywhere. After a few minutes I walked around to the other side of the greenhouse and spotted Jamie lying silently and contentedly in this hammock, cradling one of her beloved boots.
Downtime
Burrito is a man of action. Most of his days are spent playing chase or tug of war with caregivers, displaying, or bouncing up and down in anticipation of his next meal. But once in a while you just have to sit quietly and bite on stuff.
It takes a village…
The Cle Elum Seven are lucky to have an army of humans at their disposal who all contribute directly to their well-being. Chimp house volunteers make sure the chimps always have good, healthy food, interesting enrichment, plenty of blankets, and a clean and safe place to live.
A few dedicated volunteers are chosen to continue on to the highest available level of training, and become direct caregivers to the chimpanzees. These are the volunteers who develop personal relationships with the chimps, serve their meals, play and groom with them, and get to know each individual intimately to ensure everyone’s needs are being met.
These volunteer caregivers become such a regular and seamless part of the chimps’ lives that it’s hard for everyone to say goodbye when the time comes. Volunteer Connie has been a constant presence in the chimp house for over six years, but this is her last week as a caregiver to the Cle Elum Seven since she is moving on to new adventures in another state. We haven’t yet figured out a legally sound way to require lifetime service from our volunteers, so we are forced to let her go. 🙂
In all seriousness, we will miss Connie’s smile, energy, and enthusiasm. She has been a wonderful friend to the chimps and humans at CSNW, and will always be a part of the family.
Thank you to Connie and to all of our volunteers for helping these chimps live as happily and freely as possible.
To Annie on Her 41st Birthday
Dear Annie,
You haven’t always had it easy. Your first thirty years on Earth were full of fear, pain, and boredom. A lab cage is no place for anyone. Even now in your sanctuary home, you have your struggles. Being the lowest in the hierarchy isn’t easy.
But we have watched your anxiety diminish and your confidence grow. We’ve watched you make new friends, gain the courage to stand up for yourself, and learn to appreciate your own company. We love how much you love your best friend Missy. We love that as you start your 42nd year, you are still growing. We love that you haven’t let the world harden you. You inspire us all.
Happy Birthday,
Your devoted humans
Annie:
Jamie:
Missy:
Jody:
Negra:
Foxie:
Burrito:
Portraits
After a summer full of heatwaves in Cle Elum, we’re greeting this week’s cooler temperatures (and even rain!) with open arms. Today the chimpanzees have been making the most of the break from the heat and spending lots of time outside on Young’s Hill. While adventure is great, it’s important to mix in some quiet time here and there. Here are my favorite portraits of the day.
Negra:
Missy:
Jody:
Jamie:
Foxie:
Burrito:
Annie:
Farm to Table
Lunchtime at the sanctuary might be the most peaceful time of day. The chimpanzees have settled down from the morning excitement, and are usually grooming one another or playing quietly when we bring out the lunch tray.
This afternoon’s lunch included some cucumbers and tomatoes straight from the sanctuary’s vegetable garden, lovingly maintained by volunteer caregiver Denice. Everything tastes better when it’s garden fresh…
