Calling for backup
October 21, 2011 by J.B. -
Yesterday, Jamie was sitting in the greenhouse when she saw a squirrel running across the hill. The squirrel made it back safely to its den before Jamie could catch up, but unfortunately for the squirrel, Jamie now knows the location of its den. So of course she went to work trying to flush him out with a couple of bamboo canes. Here’s what we found when we went into the enclosure today:
This afternoon, Missy was returning from a trip she made to collect grass from the hill when she heard a strange noise coming from the same area. In this video, you can see her calling Jamie for backup. When the noise ceased, Missy and Jamie gave up and returned to eat their grass in the greenhouse.
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My money is on Jamie and company, sorry Mr./s squirell. it’s just a matter of time.
What will they do with the squirrel when they catch it? They wouldn’t eat it, would they? Can chimps get rabies if bitten by a rabid animal? (Not that squirels are likely carriers but I had to get rabies shots as a child when I was bitten by a chipmunk.)
They would kill it, but they wouldn’t eat it. Actually, they have killed a squirrel before…one that got into their old outdoor enclosure. It’s not pretty. They are susceptible to rabies like we are, but as you say, there is very little risk with squirrels. Around here, bats are the main carriers.
wow. that was intense. I love to see them interacting with their natural surroundings….as they would do in the wild. And I love the way Missy “calls” for back up with her gestures…that was fantastic! I say, I never get tired of these videos. I can’t wait till six months from now when everybody is feeling really safe and comfortable out there…I know it takes time, but I am so excited about this! thanks again for the great videos and the wonderful enriching nurturing environment you provide our beloved chimps! -K
I agree completely with your response. Even the shortest video is like a gift.
gee, I hope they don’t catch the poor squirrel. but didn’t Jamie look cute walking upright? 🙂
Oh my goodness!! What a tease! I wish I could have seen what ensued!!
brilliant 🙂
I love watching how they interact with each other outside ! As mentioned the other day, they look different, in a good way, now that they are out 🙂
I hear the alarm calls of a ground squirrel in the background- a sharp consistent chirp. This could be the call that Missy is wondering about- and it makes sense considering they tried to make squirrel shish-ka-bobs! I love the interaction between the two friends!
“Nature’s enrichment.” My heart is so happy seeing them outside. Congrats to everyone!!! xoxo
As a dog trainer and canine body language student, I am amazed at the body language/gestures exhibited by Missy and Jamie regarding their hunt for Mr Squirrel. I am so accustomed to watching the very subtile body language of dogs and here is a very obvious display of communication! I am amazed and intrigued!
Re: Janeal’s post. I too was amazed at Missy’s gestures. she seemed to be on the verge of speech. I am also concerned that if catch the squirrel that will be at risk of exposure to disease.