new_web_Missy groom tool GH IMG_6655

The Right Tool for the Job

March 26, 2019 by Elizabeth -

Share with your friends!

Grooming is a daily occurrence at the sanctuary. The chimpanzees groom each other, which facilitates social bonding, but they also groom themselves. Most of the chimps will use their fingers or lips for grooming, but Missy has a preferred tool: a splinter of wood that she “harvests” from one of the greenhouse climbing structures especially for the task.

And a photo of Missy’s foot, just because:

6 Comments

  1. Avatar Suzanne Conrad Tarr on March 26, 2019 at 12:09 pm

    I loved seeing Missy’s foot “just because”. Her toenails do not look nearly as long as I
    would have expected them to be, given that they most likely do not “trim” them. It was also
    interesting that she reminded me of us using toothpicks. Believe it or not, watching these
    lovely “cousins” on a daily basis just make each day great for me. Thank you all!!



  2. Avatar Hope C on March 26, 2019 at 12:20 pm

    I wish I had opposable toes!



  3. Avatar June Ireland on March 26, 2019 at 1:06 pm

    I must echo both comments above. I would love to have the very useful opposable toe, and your daily postings add incredible joy to each of my days! Thank you so much!



  4. Avatar Cara Berman on March 26, 2019 at 3:35 pm

    I gave been thinking how silky and clean their fur looks…



  5. Avatar Kathleen on March 26, 2019 at 7:30 pm

    Just look at that perfect little foot. Oh to give it a tickle! That’s one serious grooming splinter Missy created. Thanks for capturing and sharing this quiet moment with Missy.



  6. Avatar Judy on March 27, 2019 at 10:05 am

    Makes my day to see these too… I can see how that tool would be useful… clever friends these majestic people are! and what a cool foot pic 🙂



Subscribe to the Blog and
Get Notified of New Posts First!

If you like what see, be sure to subscribe. Personally written by the caregivers themselves, 365 days a year, you’ll get an insiders glimpse of all the goings on at the sanctuary. Follow us!