Snake!
February 4, 2010 by Elizabeth -
Given their history in captivity, the chimps here at CSNW (unlike their free-living counterparts) have probably never encountered a real snake before, but when this toy snake (see video) went out as part of their enrichment one day, they treated it with a healthy dose of caution.
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It amazes me they recognize the “rubber snake”, like the toy alligator in 2008, is something they should be cautious about.
I noticed the “big” toothbrush that I’d sent, it’s nice to see the goodies, we send, being used.
I’m surprised that they explore it FIRST with their mouths instead of their fingers? If it were a real snake, it seems that wouldn’t be too smart.
And yes – the genetic recognition that a snake can be dangerous is pretty wonderous.
Hi there – I am new to CSNW, and have been busy working my way through two AMAZING years worth of blogs and videos this past week. Honestly, you guys are doing FANTASTIC work over there! I, too, was surprised to see the chimps going face-first to do their reptile investigating. However, I wonder if they wouldn’t have gone face-first, had the snake actually been moving? They knew it was cause for suspicion though – instincts really are incredible. Speaking of small moving things (total tangent here), I wonder what they would do if they got to observe (from afar, of course) another small, active animal, like a mouse in a cage? Might be interesting for them, or maybe they would just ignore it.
Anyway, thank for all the informative, thoughtful, engaging writing, and the heartwarming photos and videos. You have no idea how much I look forward to these daily “chimp fixes”!
Reminds me of the time with the rubber alligator.
Welcome, Felicity. It is always great to welcome someone new to CSNW. It is a fantastic place and the chimpanzees are the best people!
I will add my welcome too, Felicity. You will come to love the Cle Elum 7, the staff and the bloggers here. It’s a wonderful place and the chimps will bring a smile to your face on your worst day.
Now my question. Wasn’t that Foxie that flipped the toy snake away? It was so fast it was hard to tell but I saw the troll doll….LOL.
haha Fox at the end is great. “get this thing away from me!”
Too funny! I think if was Foxie at the end. I too noticed the troll.
Welcome Felicity! Glad you found CSNW!
You guys are all very sweet, thanks for the warm welcome! Like I said, I’ve had an absolutely magical week discovering the CE7. 🙂 I’m working my way back in time through all the blogs, so I can get caught up on the journey they’ve had over the past year and a half.