As 2023 draws to a close, it’s time to reflect on the year that’s swiftly passing into our rear-view mirror. A shout out to our followers for always inspiring such good ideas for blog topics.
This year has definitely been a tough one for us at the sanctuary, most notably with the passing of our dear Jody Chimpanzee back at the end of April. Jody was such a huge part of her group and we all still feel the ripple effects of losing her. JB put together an eloquent and important blog about how her group mates mourned Jody on the night of her passing.
There was also lots of joy and excitement this year! We had two big birthdays this year. Burrito turned 40 and Negra marked her 50th birthday with a huge party!
The beginning of April was the very important heart week at the sanctuary as Terry, Lucky and Cy made trips to the clinic for cardiovascular exams.
In mid-May, Cy’s group went out on the Bray for the first time! This year we’ve seen such growth from that group of nine as they conquer the elements of their outdoor enclosure, one structure at a time. Sweet Lucky summoned the courage to journey outside just a few weeks after her group gained access. Her hanging out on the platform for the first time was one of my personal favorite moments of the year!
There have been numerous fun play sessions that we’ve blogged about this year, frequently starring Honey B!
Speaking of Honey B, who could forget that time she got the hose?
Oh do you also happen to remember that mystery Grace posted about months and months ago? Well it took far too long for us to figure out the perpetrator of this prank that kept going and going. Month after month, a new calendar would appear on the white board in the foyer. Just a couple of weeks ago, volunteer Dusty admitted that she had been making the calendars and sneaking them in the chimp house to torment us with this ongoing whodunit puzzle.
Volunteer Dusty who keeps good secrets:
Here’s looking towards 2024. For me personally, I’m focusing on hope, love and home more than ever next year. What was your most memorable moment at the sanctuary from this year?
