Jody wins today’s lunch forage
chimpanzee
Charm
Burrito is probably not the smartest member of his group and he’s surely not the most dominant. But whatever he lacks in brains and brawn, he more than makes up for in charm.
Is this the same guy that spit water in my ear just hours ago and picked fights with his group mates all morning? Couldn’t be. Just look at him.
Jamie and the crow’s nest
The chimpanzees continue to spend time playing on/in/and around their newest structure, “Twister.” Jamie loves to investigate the happenings of the neighborhood and finds the vantage from the crow’s nest to be the perfect spot to keep tabs on the locals. She is always interested in whatever is going on at the neighboring ranches (after all it is her job), but she seems particularly vigilant since the recent brush fire she alerted us to.
It may just be a coincidence or she may just be really loving what a great view she has, but Jamie’s been rushing out and climbing up to her lookout in the mornings and loves to spend time up there as a stopping point during her evening walks with her caregivers as well. Whatever the reason, we are so grateful she has one more tower from which to be Queen of the Hill. I kind of feel like she needs a Jolly Roger flag up there.
Joy in the Afternoon
If you’re having a bad day, this video will help. If you’re having a good day, it’s about to get even better.
The Queen on High Alert
Today, Negra was the first on the hill for the forage. At one point, she heard or saw something that she wanted to investigate further, so she stood up bipedally. This is not a posture we see Negra adopting very often, so I was very pleased to have gotten photographs:
She looks pretty innocent and sweet, doesn’t she?
Well, let’s not forget that she is a chimpanzee. Last week, before the drama of the fire, this sweet and innocent queen of the sanctuary caught and ate a hummingbird.
I really like hummingbirds, and I don’t wish a violent end to any life, but, at the same time, I did experience a feeling somewhat related to pride… it’s not an easy task to catch a hummingbird, and it’s a pretty “chimpanzee thing” to do for a not-very-active, old grandma of a chimp who has lived in captivity almost her entire life.
Boy, interrupting
One of the many challenges we face each day in order to bring you all of these photos and videos…
Today is in memory of Ned and Noreen O’Flaherty
This day of sanctuary is sponsored by Joan O’Flaherty in memory of her parents, Ned and Noreen O’Flaherty, on their anniversary.
“My parents loved animals and were very concerned about conservation of the environment. They would be pleased that their memory is honoured by a practical contribution to the care of the Cle Elum Seven.”
Joan, we are always honored that you choose to celebrate your parents and their memory each year by making a difference in the lives of the chimpanzees. This is such a compassionate way to honor their legacy and we so appreciate all that you do for the chimps in their name. We will be thinking of you and your family today and hope you are surrounded by the comfort and love you help provide for the chimpanzees in their sanctuary home.
Foxie and friends:
