One of the best, most fun aspects of working with chimpanzees is seeing them express themselves in a new way or gain new interests over time. For example, Foxie was originally the “Troll doll Queen” and in the more recent years, she expanded her love to Strawberry Shortcake and Dora the Explorer dolls.
Foxie with Troll doll
Foxie with two newer dolls
In the past, Negra has occasionally carried a doll from time to time. However, nothing ever consistent like Foxie with her dolls, Burrito with his blocks, or Jamie with her boots and books. Until recently. Ever since June 1st (yes, I checked our staff chat where we document things for an exact date), Negra has carried a doll or a plush toy nearly every single day. Thankfully, because of Foxie, we have hundreds of dolls in our collection and Foxie has not seemed to care that Negra has taken a special liking to dolls as well.
While we will never know for sure what switched in Negra to make her start consistently wanting to do this, we are all appreciating this season of Negra being a “doll mom”. Whether it be forever or temporary, that is up to her. Neggie is at sanctuary and she determines how she lives her life.
As you will see, I have collected many photos from staff and volunteers featuring Negra and her “babies”. It’s only been five weeks of Negra consistently doing this and we have plenty of photos to show our human excitement.
Apologies for any lower quality shots as every single one is a phone picture.
Negra with a blonde doll – Photos by Sofia
Negra with a red haired doll in her pelvic pocket – Photos by Anna
Negra with a plush tomato – Photos by Diana
Negra with a blue haired doll in her pelvic pocket – Photo by Kelsi
Negra with a troll doll in her pelvic pocket
Negra’s stuffed Eeyore she often chooses
Eeyore in Negra’s pelvic pocket
Negra’s two dolls she carried around this morning
Negra with twin dolls
Negra holding a Dora the Explorer doll – Photo by Krissy
