As many of our readers know, Jamie is the most dominant chimp of the Cle Elum Seven. That means that if food is nearby, whether she is interested in it at that moment or not, the other chimps respect it as hers and avoid grabbing anything that she might consider her own. You’ll see a couple interesting politics in the following video. Burrito knows that Jamie has left some chow on the floor and abandoned them to start wrestling with Foxie. He’s waiting for a point where he can take advantage of that distraction and get the chow pieces for himself. Once he eventually gets his opportunity, Foxie catches him in the act, and wants some for herself. Although Jamie still appears uninterested, Foxie asks for her permission to take some chow… but Jamie decides that she wants to keep the few pieces remaining for herself.
Burrito
Today we honor David John Parkinson
Today is sponsored by Margaret Parkinson and Karen Creason in honor of Margaret’s beloved brother David John Parkinson, who died on December 11th in Margaret and David’s native New Zealand. Margaret and Karen are some of the warmest people you could ever hope to meet. They’re chimp house volunteers and long-time supporters whose love for the chimpanzees is obvious to anyone who meets them (and it’s reciprocated – the chimps adore them!). They had this to say about David and why they chose to sponsor a day in his name:
“David helped Margaret feel cared for all her life and we want [the Cle Elum Seven] to feel cared for in his honor.”
Here’s Missy grooming her “brother”, Burrito:
Silly B
B’s day
Burrito’s birthday is just a week away! Let’s make Mr. B’s-day super great. Find out how you can become Burrito’s Pal, or Sponsor his B-day! His favorite thing in the world is food—of all kinds. Here’s a few photos of B’s cute food face:
And we can never forget Burrito’s pumpkin head from this year’s Halloween party:
What’s popular?
Thanks to all who have made purchases through our special holiday gift store, for those who have bought CSNW merchandise in our online store and to new Chimpanzee Pals! The chimpanzees are supported by your donations and we appreciate your generosity!
No doubt you are wondering how your tastes compare to those of other supporters. Wonder no longer.
The most popular holiday gift store item is…..
Snuggle Up: Straw for the chimps to make a nice cozy nest
Runners up in the holiday store are:
and Night Bags for Negra
And the most current popular merchandise item is:
With runner’s up: Burrito Pom Balm (but don’t forget to also check out the new Foxie Spearmint Balm)
and Negra Pullover Hoodies
And if you’re wondering who has the most Pals, well it’s Burrito with 24 current Pals. Shockingly, Jamie, the leader of the Cle Elum Seven, has the fewest Pals with 17.
There’s still time to sign up yourself or a loved one to the Chimpanzee Pal program and receive a treat of CSNW Chimp Brittle from Allison’s Gourmet. You can choose either $20 per month or $240 in one donation. Learn more on our Holiday Pal page.
Whether signing up to be a Pal or perusing the gift store or checking out our merchandise, we wish you Happy Holiday Shopping and Giving!
Burrito’s sweet face
Want to do something super sweet for both Burrito AND a close friend or family member? Check out our holiday gift store to see all sorts of unique ways to support the chimps as a gift for someone special.
Infinity Scarf
Volunteer Connie was telling Jackie and myself about these neat things called “infinity scarves.” They are made out of t-shirts and look pretty fashionable in my opinion. We thought the chimps might enjoy one so we decided to make one out of an old style CSNW shirt. Jackie and Connie took it into the chimp area to stretch it out and see if anyone was interested in playing. To everyone’s shock, Negra was interested in playing a game of tug-o-war. She does not play very often with caregivers, and definitely not for long periods of time. This game went on for infinity! What’s even more interesting is that Negra woke up on the wrong side of the nest today—she was a little grumpy all morning. I’m glad we were able to cheer her up!