It is gorgeous at the sanctuary today, practically sweltering! Well, OK, that may be an exaggeration but it’s definitely the warmest day we’ve seen this year and none of the primates here at CSNW are quite used to the sudden higher temperatures. With gardening season upon us we thought we would have a pre-garden party of sorts, which started with volunteer caregiver, Steph, bringing lilacs for the chimpanzees to enjoy with their breakfast! The entire greenhouse smelled so beautiful!

Missy headed straight for the lilacs even before grabbing her breakfast:

Her fabulous prehensile lips are perfect for “vacuuming” up the tiny buds:

Jody in particular really enjoys eating fresh flowers and was peering at Missy in the hopes she would share:

Missy wasn’t in the mood to share the fragrant treats but Jody found her own to enjoy in the comfort of her nest:

The garden themed day continued after breakfast when we set up the chimps’ gardening table in the playroom. Debbie filled it with dirt, alfalfa cubes, and flowers, and made sure they had their gardening tools on hand:

Annie decided to get right to work:

She spent quite a while working at the table while enjoying the warm breeze by the barn doors:

And of course, Jamie, wanted to get some gardening in as well and decided to bring the entire garden tray back to her nest to work on:

Thank you, Steph, for the gorgeous lilacs and for always brightening the chimpanzees’ (and the humans’!) days! As I type this, the chimpanzees are all luxuriating in the heat of the greenhouse, enjoying a taste of the warm months ahead.