Posts by J.B.
Ritual
Over the years, Jamie has continued to develop the ritual around her walks with staff and volunteers. These days, it goes something like this: First, Jamie selects a boot for the human to wear. Next, they walk around the hill together (on opposite sides of the fence, of course). When the walks are done, they…
Read MoreOne more time
Sometimes our boss makes us work late.
Read MoreWork smarter, not harder
Jamie may be one of the fastest and strongest chimps in her group, but why work so hard when you don’t have to?
Read MoreMornings like these
As I watched the chimps head out onto the hill today, I realized that it was a perfect moment to grab the telephoto lens and take some shots of the chimps on the towers. On mornings like these, Foxie likes to take to her usual spot, doll in hand, to spy on the world through…
Read MoreMore Burrito
I know what you’re thinking….more Burrito?!?!? Haven’t we had enough already? What is this, his third video in a week? It’s true, he’s been a bit of a blog hog this week, but we didn’t think that should stop us from sharing this video with you.
Read MoreBurrito & Foxie
These two…
Read MoreNew Enrichment
We’re always on the hunt for new enrichment ideas. Here are a couple simple ones that we’ve recently introduced. Both are Jamie-approved!
Read MoreThe 2018 Winter Chimp-O-Lympics
Anna organized an Olympics-themed party for the chimps this morning. Negra wasn’t sure what to think at first, but once she saw the fancy drinks in coconut-rimmed glasses, she got on board. We didn’t have quite as much snow as they have in Pyeongchang, but we managed to scrape together enough to fill a sled…
Read MorePlay All Day (while the humans work)
Lately, Missy and Annie have been doing what they do best – playing all day! Meanwhile, the humans have been busting their butts to move caging, glass, and other material from the former Chimpanzee and Human Communication Institute (CHCI) at Central Washington University before its demolition. The building had sat largely empty in the years…
Read MoreBeing Social
Like us, chimpanzees are social primates. We look to our friends and family for comfort and companionship. We rely on our communities for protection. Our cultures provide us with the knowledge we need to survive. The desire to be with others is so essential that it is hardwired in apes like us. Without social contact…
Read MoreThe Magic of Winter
For Missy, this truly is a magical time of year.
Read MoreAlone Time
Foxie is one of the more gregarious chimps I’ve known, but even the most social primate needs to be alone once and a while. At CSNW, each day begins with a group activity – breakfast. When that’s done, the chimps typically head out onto the hill together. Jamie does her first patrol, Missy runs in…
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