September 1st is International Primate Day everybody! I honestly didn’t know such a day existed until recently, but I’m glad it does. The term “primate” is a biological classification, which of course encompasses humans, but I think this day was meant to celebrate the non-human variety. There are a lot of terms that get thrown around interchangeably when we talk about chimpanzees, some of which are accurate, and some not so much. I think one of the most common mistakes humans use when they talk about chimps is to call them “monkeys.” Chimpanzees are in fact large bodied apes. One good way to determine if you are looking at an ape vs. a monkey? Look for a tail. Chimpanzees and other apes don’t have tails and are generally larger than other primates.

I’m grateful to know all the special primates in my life like Burrito, who was kind enough to pose for photos in the portrait studio this afternoon.

If you are interested in helping support the seven non-human primates that call Cle Elum home (and the future developments at the sanctuary), check out the online auction that is happening NOW!