Posts by Anna
That one!
Foxie has a ton of dolls to choose from, and when she sees the next one she wants, it’s out with the old, in with the new! For now…
Read MoreHighly prized
There are a few foods that a lot of caregivers mildly dread serving to the chimpanzees. One of these foods is corn on the cob. Corn is a hot commodity for the chimps and with its distinguished deliciousness, comes a wave of competitive desire from a few of the dominant individuals (namely Jamie and Jody)…
Read MorePea tendrils
It’s that time of year again! The snap peas were nearing the end of their season in the chimpanzees’ garden, so this morning we pulled up the vines and gave the entire plants to the chimpanzees for browse. The chimps like to suck all of the juices out of the tougher vegetation and spit out…
Read MoreSimilar tastes
Jody and Negra share the same passion for peace, quiet, and comfortable nests. Negra: Jody:
Read MoreSanctuary, seven ways
Sanctuary means different things for the seven chimpanzee individuals that live in Cle Elum, Washington. Negra’s sanctuary lies in the solitude and comfort of a giant nest: And sometimes the chance to peacefully pick wild greens on Young’s Hill Jody finds sanctuary in the company of others: as well in moments of quiet: and bounty:…
Read MoreFirst Responder Days
The sanctuary is no stranger to relying on the kindness of our community’s first responders. In 2012 we were faced with the terrifying Taylor Bridge Fire, a huge wild fire that threatened and destroyed many homes in our area. Last year another smaller fire broke out on a nearby property. We know that wildfire is…
Read MoreAn odd relationship
We’ve seen Foxie put her dolls in precarious places, just so she could rescue them. We’ve also seen her hug and groom them lovingly. There are moments in the day when she throws them up and catches them, or hits them with tools. There are also moments like this..
Read MoreReflections
Mirrors (and front facing camera phones) are popular enrichment with the chimpanzees. This afternoon Jody took a moment to check up on her reflection (via caregiver cell phone) as she lounged in her nest.
Read MoreFree refills
The chimpanzees have access to water spigots at all times during the day, but sometimes they enjoy a refreshing drink straight from the hose. Jamie occasionally adds a personal twist to the caregiver interaction when she brings her own cup.
Read MoreNegra forages
The chimpanzees all have different techniques for foraging out on Young’s Hill. Most of them will take multiple trips and comb every inch of the ground and structures for every bit of produce and primate chow. This is not Negra’s technique. When Negra forages she usually heads for one area and picks up whatever she…
Read MoreA selection
Each day, caregivers put out carefully selected enrichment items into the enclosures for the chimpanzees to enjoy. Objects like clothing, crayons, magazines, paper, and kids toys are placed around to try and peak the chimps’ interests (or sometimes to just give them something to throw). There are two types of enrichment items that are an…
Read MoreA new friend for the chimps!
Last week we welcomed our new part-time staff caregiver Kelsi to the sanctuary! She has been busy learning the daily routine around here and is now getting to know the chimps! This afternoon Burrito was more than happy to demonstrate proper chase protocol for her: And how to give a good (and safe) back rub:…
Read More