Tis the Season
December 15, 2018 by Diana -
One frequently asked question we’re asked, well, frequently, is how the chimpanzees cope with snow. Snow is not a part of wild chimpanzees’ environment, to be clear.
However, save for maybe a few months as infants for Negra, Annie, and perhaps Jody, the seven chimpanzees here know nothing about the life and environment of wild chimpanzees. They grew up, for the most part, indoors. And for the last decade (at least) before coming to the sanctuary, they didn’t even have a window to look out.
So, to answer the question about how they cope with snow, I’d say they’ve adapted very well! As a rule, chimpanzees generally don’t like to get their feet wet. However, if the snow is not deep, the chimpanzees at CSNW go right outside, explore, and often collect some of the wintry treat to enjoy back in the greenhouse.
The visual of chimpanzees in snow is still sometimes strange; but they are, after all, honorary citizens of Cle Elum: Heart of the Cascades.
After ten years, a trek in the snow is probably just as normal as walking through the tall pasture grass and planted bamboo in the spring and summer.
And they look darn good against a backdrop of white.
Burrito
Annie & Burrito
Jody
Speaking of snow season, thank you to everyone who has donated so far in our year-end fundraising! I’ll have some more updates about that soon. I’ve been overwhelmed by all of the generosity from so many people. It really does a heart good to have the support of inspiring, amazing, and caring folks who are rooting for the Bring Them Home Expansion to continue as quickly as possible so we can provide a home for more chimpanzees!
Did you know that artist and friend of the chimpanzees Maragaret H. Parkinson has a special offer of a painting to a lucky person who donates $1,000?! Check out the original 12×12″ oil painting “Rainbow Ele” ©️ 2018 below and get in touch ([email protected]) if you would like to take advantage of this truly amazing gift!
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While I know chimpanzees in the their natural habitat never find themselves foraging in the snow I gotta admit, I never think twice seeing the Cle Elum Seven in powder. I get it, they may not be fans of snow, but like me, they deal with it and sometimes even enjoy it. Just seeing them outside, exploring, is delightful no matter the season or weather.
And to Maragaret Parkinson, just so you know I am a fan from afar. Love your work. Your painting of Negra with her face towards the glow of the yellow sunshine is my all time favorite. I am a proud owner of a reproduction of this image and it has a place of honor in my office where I can bask in its glow everyday.
Thank you for your kind words Kathleen. ?. Our chimpanzees are some of my best friends. They are truly wonderful! Whatever we can do to help them is important. Thank you for your support.
You are absolutely right: the chimpanzees look beautiful in the snow! The look on Jody’s face says it all.
Negra is so cute, and she kinda reminds me of Eeyore :revolving_hearts:
That’s what I think! Neither one of them are full of laughs and giggles, but they’re both very good at just keeping on keeping on!
I am always happy to see or hear that Neggie is the first one out the door! Taking Eeyore to lunch was too sweet. And I also love to see Bubba starting his patrol with Terry keeping him company two fences apart.
Was Neggie hand out because it’s chilly, was she looking for reassurance from Bubba, or waving at Terry?
I hope that Neggie corraled her friend Eeyore back inside as the wind picked up.
Go Neggie! First one out and today, she brings her friend Eeyore (that is too perfect). She was covering sound ground out there but she settled right next to some snow for a little snacking. I am beginning to believe that our Queen has a wee crush on our adorable freckly Terry!
Neggie with her Eeyore and Foxie with her dollie! A nice day outside is always better with a friend close at hand.
I see Terry has his eyes on the lovely ladies (and gent) next door… Neggie certainly seemed quite interested in him!
In my little mind, Neggie was most definitely waving at Terry! This would be the best way to kick off a springtime friendship because, as you know, it is proper etiquette to never address the Queen unless she speaks to you first. Neggie has made the first move!
Too true!
Chimp royal etiquette!:smile: