Posts by J.B.
Chewing Gum
The chimps at CSNW love chewing gum and each has their own style. Negra likes to stretch hers out as far as she can.
Read MoreHappy 36th Birthday, Burrito!
A very happy 36th birthday to the one and only Burrito.
Read MoreFog breaks
Waves of dense fog rolled across the sanctuary all morning. We’d set out for walks when the fog would break but another wave would quickly overtake us. Jody was not a fan. Missy wasn’t fazed in the slightest. When the fog lifted it felt almost like spring. Even Negra came out to bask in the…
Read MoreJamie the Tool User
She’s really smart.
Read MoreDay Nests
At the end of each day, free-living chimpanzees build elaborate nests and go to sleep for the night. These night nests, typically built high up in the crown of a tree, are thought to serve a number of functions including thermoregulation, protection from predators and parasites, and shelter from the elements. According to one researcher…
Read MoreJamie’s Mission
This morning, as I was putting away a squeegee, I accidentally knocked a broom off of the tool rack. I watched it slide to within inches of the playroom caging and before my brain could finish processing the thought that Jamie might be able to grab it, Jamie grabbed it. Now, the most important thing…
Read MoreNight bags
At the end of each day the chimps are each given a “night bag” filled with nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and popcorn. Unlike the rest of their meals, which they typically devour as fast as possible, night bags are savored. It’s as close to meditation as you can get for an animal as frenetic as…
Read MoreThe New Boot Ritual
Jamie received a new pair of boots from our wish list this afternoon. She has a specific series of rituals that must be followed when she receives a new pair of boots. First, one of the staff or volunteers must wear the boot and join Jamie on a walk around the hill. After returning, Jamie…
Read MoreSeattle Times article and Adventures on the Hill
Yesterday, the Seattle Times published a great article about CSNW online. It will also appear in the print version of the Seattle Times Pacific NW magazine this Sunday. Please share it widely if you can – we are so grateful to writer Sandi Doughton and photographer Alan Berner for giving the sanctuary and the movement…
Read MoreA Flurry of Fall Activity
I can’t remember a time when we’ve been this busy here at CSNW. It’s gotten to the point where it feels odd when the nail guns, diesel engines, and back up signals fall silent for the evening. But we couldn’t be happier to see all the progress around here! Here’s a brief update on what…
Read MoreMissy
Foxie takes care of business
Another garter snake saga, in which everyone learns a very important lesson: Foxie will take care of it, but you would do well to give her a wide berth.
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