Alone Time
January 11, 2012 by Elizabeth -
Jody’s been known to head straight up to the top of Young’s Hill as soon as we open the door, and sometimes disappear in the grass for quite some time. Chimpanzees are very social by nature, and the Cle Elum Seven seem to genuinely enjoy each other’s company for the most part, but it must be nice to finally have space to get away and enjoy some private time.
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What a beautiful picture, time for a new desktop – Thanks Elizabeth!!!
nice to be ABLE to make the decision to be alone!
And now she has that option….
Jody looks so serene. She will enjoy her pals even more after some alone time–like most of us. Thank you, Elizabeth.
Has she chosen a particular spot that she likes? Have any of the chimps taken blankets out and made a nest on Young’s Hill?
I haven’t noticed any favored spots yet. When she disappears to the top of the hill, it’s hard to tell quite WHERE she is. I think any favorite spots will become apparent this summer when they’re spending more time out there.
As for nesting on the hill, I haven’t observed any yet. When the chimps are out there, they’re pretty active – running, foraging, playing. I expect that we’ll see some nesting as they continue to feel more and more comfortable out there (and as the temperatures rise).
If she could, I am sure she would take a book with her and have a nice read…
What a beautiful picture! I can’t help but wonder if they ever think of where they used to be and how they must appreciate where they are now……it brings tears to my (and my mother’s) eyes. Thanks, Elizabeth!!
Truly a beautiful image: a chimpanzee, smiling from what we can see, amidst the wilds in tall grass.
I have to look at that photo and believe that chimps know the feeling of joy and after a life of cages, this must be what Jody is feeling at that moment.
What a beautiful picture of an already beautiful lady. I wonder if they got so used to being alone that sometimes the together time can be overwhelming, even if it is supposed to be what is natural. Any thoughts on this?
It’s hard to say. Regardless of their history, I’d imagine that living with the same six individuals day after day can get to be a bit much, so I’m sure they’re happy to be able to take breaks from each other.
In warmer weather, will the chimps have the choice of staying outside overnight?
They will. Technically, they have the choice now – we can’t force anyone to come inside – but this time of year, they are usually motivated to return to the warm indoors.
In the summer, I think we’ll see the chimps stay out longer and later with the warmer temperatures and longer days, but I’m not sure whether anyone will choose to stay out all night. They seem to feel more secure inside once it gets dark. But in case someone does choose to stay out, a staff member will stay in the chimp house until everyone’s safely inside.
After years of captivity and total control , inside a small dank cell, it must be wonderful to stand outside in fresh air and wide open spaces. It makes me cry.
Me too, It makes me cry too, to see Jody enjoy the wide open spaces of Youngs hill, perhaps NOW she now can reflect upon all her losses,, all her childtren who were taken from at birth, I just cant imgaine Jody’s screams, and crying,,to have her infants taken from her.. and no one to comfort her.. Perhaps, due to their own individual ife of horrors, and precious losses,, these chimps have found thier own brand of resolve, and healing through alone time..just as it does for humans, solace is a good thing, from time to time its needed, Im just glad Joidy has found some peace adn joy,and security and SAFETY in her life now.. I’d say she has a good, sweet life now.. God continue Blessing them all …