The Animal World Has Lost A Hero - RIP Dr Steve Ross

This was not what I thought I'd be writing about today.   

When I checked email this morning, I was again surprised that there was no reply from Steve.  He always got back to me the same day, often within hours of contact.  I had been checking since emailing him Tuesday evening in regards to a blog post I planned to write today.  I was waiting for his input. 

I again checked email about an hour ago, and was shocked at what had come through.  This from Erika Fleury, Program Director at NAPSA (North American Primate Sanctuary Alliance).

I still can't believe it.   I literally had just got an email from him days before about something else I asked for his knowledge on.

I first became acquainted with Steve at the start of 2015.  I had just started my crusade to save our SFZoo Chimpanzees, after learning that Director Peterson had planned to kick them out.  I was sickened that instead of improving the home they had lived in for over forty-five years, our three seniors were being forced to face something so horrific.   I contacted Steve, who was the Chimpanzee Studbook Keeper for the Species Survival Plan (SSP).   I was seeking to understand the SSP protocol in regard to minimum group size, but I got much more.  During the course of my crusade, we talked many times by phone.  His advice and education, was invaluable.  

For the years since then, he has always been there for any questions I had or issues I needed feedback on.  He was always willing to share his knowledge, give his opinion, offer advice, or help in any way he could.  Because of Steve's position in Zoo World, our friendship was extremely confidential.   Until now, I have only told one other person.  I can write this today, and do, so that people who didn't know him,  can learn about him, and be thankful for the good he has done for Primates.  

A few years back, after waiting for a new home in our SFZoo, our Chimpanzees were finally able to experience their new yard.  That coincided with our Director acquiring Orangutans without having a proper home for them.  Somehow instead of alternating use of the new Chimp yard, the Chimps were locked out of their yard for seven weeks straight.  Stuck inside with no outdoor access for the entire summer.  Once I finally had enough of that, I contacted Steve for advice.  He said, "Let me make a call."  The next day, the Chimps were out in their yard!    

Steve was a gem and this is a huge loss for so many and in so many ways.   I am grateful for all the time he spent on things that were important to me.  I valued his advice, knowledge, and kindness.   I admired his care for all non-human Beings and his passion for Primates.  He sure loved his Apes!

RIP Steve, Bless Your Soul.  Hoping you can orchestrate some good from the other side for all non-human Beings, as you did while on this side.   

Please view this video filmed during the Lincoln Park Zoo Covid shutdown.   Steve gives a tour of LPZoo Ape Center.  You can feel how much he cares for his Ape Family.

https://m.facebook.com/watch/live/?ref=watch_permalink&v=2561066280827717&_rdr

Chimps Haven't Been Outside in Almost Two Months!

I'm not even sure how to begin this.  A month ago, I had a plan for this blog.  Finish up al my posts in draft, both the couple I have published holding spaces for flow purposes, and the handful of others I've had in draft, one since February 2018.  Contrary to what some think, I actually have come to hate blogging.  Its too emotionally draining.  I ignore posting in timely manner, because of the upset, but then that back-up becomes overwhelming.  ...  Moving forward, out of order, as I can no longer ignore posting about what is going on with our Chimpanzees.

Our Chimps have not gone outside in almost two months! 

By my calculations, June 24th, the day the Great Ape Passage pathway was first opened to the public, was the the last time the Chimps were outside, and in the new yard.  

It is now seven weeks since, and while I know there are extenuating circumstances, this is not acceptable! 

At this point, most of you are asking why?  Before getting into the factual details, as to why, I want to make something very clear.  

This situation with our Chimpanzees and Orangutans, is a direct result of decisions made by Director Tanya Peterson.  She has the final word on what happens at the Zoo.  It all falls on her, because if there was any indication (and there was) that this would happen, she had the opportunity to fix it or stop it. 

That all said, I want to also be very clear, that I do not hold the Primate Staff responsible for the situation, as I believe, they are doing the best they can, with what they've been given.  The simple facts of the situation are,  we have two spaces and we have two species.   The Orangutans should have never come here until Triple Grotto was ready for them.  That is the bottom line. 

Director Peterson and the Zoological Society/Donors have been pushing to acquire Orangutans for years.  Their wants were the main catalyst for Peterson trying to kick out the Chimps (2015) and replace them with Orangutans.  So no surprise they are here, the surprise and sadness is the timing.  There was and is no proper habitat to exclusively house them in.  ... See previous posts by searching "Orangutans"

Director Peterson knew in 2014, as she put her plan to kick out the Chimps in motion, that she wanted to bring in Orangutans.  

Once it was confirmed, the Chimps would be staying, three things needed to happen.  

*A new living space for the Chimps had to be built. 

*Additional Chimps needed to be brought in.

*Triple Grotto needed to be renovated

Two of those things have been achieved.  The last is still a mystery to everyone.

Since 2015, not one of the Zoo's annual fundraisers, ZooFest has focused on raising funds for the Chimps new space, or subsequently, the renovation of Triple Grotto for the acquisition of Orangutans in the future.  As well, it appears that no Donors have come forward to contribute to the Triple Grotto cause, as they hadn't wanted to for the Chimps for the twenty years prior. 

As soon as the Chimps staying was confirmed, renovation plans for Triple Grotto should have been drawn up, and after sorting funding for the Chimp Expansion, funding for Triple Grotto should have started.  ... The Zoo was seeking Orangutan individuals as early as Fall 2018.  As soon as the Chimps moved out of Triple Grotto in March 2019, renovations of Triple Grotto should have started.  Again, Orangutans should never have been brought here until Triple Grotto was ready.

So let's reiterate, we have two spaces and two species.  One space is indoors. Do the math. 

Now, from the beginning, the Expansion, was supposed to be new bedrooms, a dayroom and a yard, for the Chimps.  No one expected Orangutans to be brought in before Triple Grotto was renovated.  When they were, word was the two species would be rotated.   The Great Ape Passage sign, shows both species, so rotating them sounded like a fine idea when Triple Grotto was part of the idea.  Now that it isn't, we have a huge problem. 

The huge problem, is that not having two outdoor yards, leaves one species inside.  That species has so far been the Chimps.  This is unacceptable.  The Chimps were supposed to be the priority.  They waited decades for this and are now apparently being slighted again.  Its not right.  They are old, they may not have ten, fifteen more years to wait for the Zoo to get its act together.  

Again, I think the Primate Staff is doing the best they can, but something needs to give soon.  The Chimps can't be cooped up in the Dayroom forever, yet what can be done?  There is no other place to put the Orangutans.  The situation has been and is as follows.  The Chimps got access to the new yard May 30, for several days following that, and a few more sprinkled through til their last time in there June 24.  June 25th and forward to date, the female Orangutan has had access.  Her access was limited shortly after her first outing, as the male basically barricaded himself against the trail door leading to the yard, since he doesn't have access the door was closed. That left the new yard with neither Chimps or Orangutans using it for at least two weeks.  New yard, warm weather, and it sat empty.  Note the male Orangutan doesn't have access to the yard because of recall issues.  If he goes out and refuses to come in, that's a problem.  Once the male Orangutan was moved to the long trail, the female could have access.  Since then, I have not seen her spend any extended time in the yard, just in and out.  I estimate her time in yard during an eight hour day is less than an hour.  So with both trails and yard being used for Orangs, the Chimps are shit out of luck for fresh air and sunshine. ... This needs to change NOW! 

The Chimps are obviously not going to get to go to the yard anytime soon.  It also seems like there will be no rotating, so they at least need access to the long trail.  This in no way is meant to be mean to the Orangutans.  I love them, and are very much enjoying them, but them being a priority at the detriment to the Chimps is not acceptable.  ... They have all seen eachother through the windows, there is no drama, so the Chimps need access to the trail.  The Orangs can have access to the trail that leads to the yard.  They can figure out if they are going to let them both have access to the yard or keep them both with only access to the trail and bedrooms.  But again THE CHIMPS NEED TO GO OUTSIDE!  ... The only sad thing about this is the Chimps will see the Orangs using the yard that they can't.  Such a messed up situation, that could have been avoided.

My video about the situation  https://youtu.be/n65rxmqGHD8

I will note here as I have previously.  If Triple Grotto was ready when Orangs got here, the male Orangutan would possibly not have the stubborn recall issues he is exhibiting.  He was taken from his Family for the first time, brought to a new place, with new people, he was most likely scared.  Add in the loud major construction going on right outside, because the new yard wasn't finished either, no wonder he isn't being cooperative.  Bringing him here prematurely made the situation worse.

Let's talk about the detriment to the Chimps that I mentioned. For the past three weeks I have been noticing a change in the Chimps behavior.  The have increasingly pulled back their activity, culminating in them just laying around all day.   These new areas, were supposed to be enriching and exciting for them.  If you look at my early videos, it was.  They were happy, they were exhibiting behaviors and interactions that showed that.  They were up and active, and now they look like their spirits have been broken.  They looked happier, were outside in the sun and had more room (and their twigging mound) in Triple Grotto.  This is not how it was supposed to be for them!

Last week on my last day out of the house, I got home and started my evening routine, the whole time, thinking about my visits that week with the Chimps. By the time I was ready to sit down, I was so upset that I was in tears.  The tears continued this past week as nothing had changed.  The only ambition to be active that I saw in them was Wednesday, when there was activity outside in preparation for the arrival of new Chimps.  The only good thing about the timing of them coming, is that the Chips will have reason to be up and about.  There is no way they will be just laying around with the excitement of new Friends in the house.So, yeah, for those who don't know, we were scheduled to receive three new Chimps by the end of the week. 

So, if you're keeping track, that would be 7 Chimps, and two Orangutans, to manage in two areas.  

The situation just keeps getting worse.  Will 7 Chimps be cooped up in the Dayroom?  How will introductions be done with only six bedrooms and the dayroom?   If we were going to have Orangutans by this time, we needed Triple Grotto done.  ... Now regarding that.  I have heard that the plan remains a mystery because there is no funding! What?!  Its obvious that we need Triple Grotto for the Orangutans, yet no funding for it?  Well, Director Peterson needs to start crying to the Donors, because this is a necessity.  I also heard because of lack of funds, that maybe only one Grotto will be done.  Uh, no, that is not an acceptable sized space for two adult Orangutans and future offspring.  Both the North and Middle Grotto need renovation.  Geez, anyone with compassion can see that.

I also want to note that I understand that there are many factors that both the incoming and outgoing Zoos need to work with to make transfers happen.  I understand that certain Animals need to be moved from their current homes to new homes, even at times not ideal.  But I have to wonder, at what expense?  If there is no proper housing?  No proper area for proper management?  

I've also been thinking about this rotating situation.  Why hasn't it been done?  I early on wondered about whether it would be a sanitation issue.  I then just assumed, since it was mentioned that it wouldn't be, because they were both Apes, and I knew there had been mixed species Ape and Monkey enclosures at other Zoos.  ... This week thinking about it more, I did some research, and come to find out, yes it is an issue.  Before being able to rotate these two species, the areas would need to be sanitized before and after, use by each species.  How this was ever a considered option is beyond me.  I can not see there being enough staff or time for this to happen on a regular basis.  

That said, its seeming like the Chimps would then be kept inside most of their life.  This is wrong, and again, it comes directly back to Director Peterson, not making sure Triple Grotto was renovated before acquiring Orangutans.  

The way these poor Animals are and will be living, is a result directly dictated by how Director Peterson has managed the priority of projects at the Zoo.  

The damage has been done.  The Chimps need to go outside NOW.  Triple Grotto renovation needs to happen NOW.  Director Peterson, what is your plan?

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Blogger's Statement

"Personal Opinions and Facts presented publicly are Not against the law or any rules. ... Censorship and Retaliation Actions in an attempt at Suppression are frowned upon by Healthy Societies."

For Full Statement see this post:

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/09/my-zoo-status.html
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Chimpanzee Update - Chimps Enter New Yard For The First Time! and See Their New Orangutan Neighbor!!

From Draft to Post
Monday 7.8.19

Well, I'm finally getting to this post.  I heard something on the radio this morning and I thought, yes!  I must strive for that mentality.  It was in reference to writing papers, whether in school, business, personal correspondence,... Don't wait for it to be perfect, just get it done.  They had one gal noting that some paper she was working on has taken three months.  I laughed as my Madagascar post has been in draft for over a year!  It takes me along time, because many of the subjects are draining to rehash.  Some posts also require  going through info, photos, or even researching some things.  I like to present as much information, and documentation to support what I'm writing about. Anyway, I thought, I just need to get my posts in draft done.  There are six more than the four I had holding places. So I got ten total to write.  I wanted to do alot over the last weekend.  I felt it was the perfect time to get Independence from these weights.  Didn't happen.  So I'm hoping to reach my goals by the end of the month. 

So let's start!  The first of two Great Ape Updates!  It seems there is something new most days I visit.  Its a busy time for Chimps and Orangs, New Animals, Introductions, New Homes, New Areas, and all the combo's and steps of making that work toward the final goal of these two happy and comfortable groups of Apes.

Unless I missed something, the Zoo's Social Media has still made no mention of Qadeer. No welcome. No updates when he was getting introduced to Cobby, Maggie and Minnie. No Nothing.  Sad. Disrespectful.  Anyway, their loss, as I have been posting about him since before he got here.  Here's one from last week of him enjoying his pepper snack!

Our precious Chimpers!  Qadeer was the perfect addition to our group.  Wonderful seeing them all sitting close enough together to capture all in one photo!  L-R Minnie (above), Qadeer, Maggie, and Cobby.

Going back to February, when I had heard that the Orangutans were on their way, I was surprised as the new Yard wasn't even being worked on, and Triple Grotto (TG) was in no condition ready to receive Orangutans.  By mid May, the Orangs were already here, in the TG house and rushing to get the Yard done to be open on Memorial Day weekend was in motion and going strong seven days straight that last week. 

For a couple weeks, I had taken a progress look on every visit.  It looked great, but there was this one log that was a floor to trail access point. I worried that it was too steep for our Senior Chimps. As well, when I saw it with no construction workers a couple days before the Chimps got access, I thought that the main platform access was also too steep.  I worried further that the yard was going to be ok for young Orangutans but not our Senior Chimps.

I got lucky a couple days before the Holiday Weekend, and to came round Chimps and saw the Keeper putting food in the yard, and realized I was going to see the Chimps in there and that it was the first time!  When the Chimps came out, these friends surprised me!  They went right for the steep ladder and climbed it with ease, even Cobby!  They were able to access everything!  I was so happy, after being worried.  In hindsight, I shouldn't have worried and known that there was no way that our Primate Curator would have allowed them in there, if he thought there was any issue with age related accessibility. 

I think because it seemed rushed, and I have heard Triple Grotto plan is pending funding, that I thought some corners might have been cut to fit the timeline and budget.  Again, even if those were factors, I should have had faith in what I already knew about the care our Curator has for these Friends and what he did to make the Dayroom beautiful.  I mostly about things the Zoo gets wrong, but I need to say, hiring Joe Knobbe (Curator) was the best hire they have done in as long as I can remember.  The guy has been a Godsend to our Chimps and now our Orangs.  He really knows his stuff, and this project, the Great Ape Passage (GAP) would have never been done to the level of awesome it has been, if it weren't for him. I'm am so grateful for what he's done for My Precious Chimpers and their new Chimpanzee and Orangutan Friends who will all live in the GAP. 

All that said, in case there are some who don't follow my YouTube or Twitter, and missed these videos,  here's links to all the fun from the first time the Chimps had access to the new Yard!  So happy I was able to see this, another first for our Chimps!  In addition to the joy of seeing them get yet another new and enriching area to explore, the most wonderful part of this is that they did it as a Family.  This is the first time all four have experienced something for the first time together.  It was a beautiful thing!

Pt One
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PDzKuG3xKM8

Pt Two

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BZ-YVY_MRAM

Pt Three

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZ5Td9dA658

The Zoo's Director of Communications, Graphics, and Social Media were all there, taking photos and filming it, yet there has not been one post showing this special moment in their lives.   Thankfully I happened by at the right time!  It baffles me why the Zoo doesn't post things like this.  All the new stuff the Chimps are experiencing should be shared.  These are all new things for them.  The first new things in fifty years!  That's something to share!

Today the Chimps had another first,...  While I was standing outside watching the Orangutans, I again wondered if they would ever let them see eachother, like one group in each trail.  Literally a few minutes later, Amoi came out into the trail that connects to the Dayroom.  Same moment, the Chimps started screaming.  It was happening!  They were in full view of eachother!  Amoi ran to the door, as the Chimps hooted and hollered in the windows.  She stopped short of the door, and waved her arms towards them.  When they vocalized, she ran back towards Triple Grotto.  Not long after she ran out again, this repeated itself many times.  In the early rushes, she started knocking on the door lol!  and instead of running back to TG, she stepped back a few feet and looked at the Chimps in the window!  I think it became a game for her!  Soon everyone was calm.  Surprising that Cobby once again, was the least animated.  I'm really proud of him how he has handled all these new things.  I was reminded that Our three Seniors had lived side by side with Orangs in the past, and found out Qadeer, had never seen one before!  So, that explained why his reaction was the most high energy.

I won't load my photo files til the weekend, so I filmed the first clip from camera to cell phone.  You can view it here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SuCV1tLMW40

Looking to the future. 

Our Chimp group will grow this year, with the addition of three additional Chimpanzees.  This will be another first for our three Seniors, as they have only lived in a group maximum of four.  There were other Chimps during the time frame when Cobby and Tallulah first came to the Zoo, but I think the others were gone by the time Minnie and Maggie arrived.

With our group size expanding to seven, more space will be needed.  I have posted before in wonder about the status of redoing Triple Grotto.  For the longest time, no one seemed to know if anything was going to be done to it.  That didn't make sense, as it is clearly a necessary cog in the GAP project.  That said, because of the level of awesome the Dayroom and Yard turned out to be, it would be a let down and eyesore for them to not do it up right.   I have heard its all pending funding.  I've heard it may only involve the North Grotto, which would be ridiculous.  The only logical thing to do is to combine North and South Grotto to make a large yard. I still maintain the best thing to do is fill in the moat.  I blogged about this years ago.  I blogged about it recently.  I think making a larger topical area is a must.  I also hope they can keep or build a new twigging mound, and also have some greenery, grass and bushes if possible.  I've been looking at other Zoos exhibits and have seen some like that.  Basically I hope there are elements to it that are different than the Dayroom and Yard.

This sign now up at Triple Grotto. 

To me acknowledges something will be done. 

When, is anyones' guess.

All I can say to that, and I've said it before, they Zoo has known for years that this would need to be done.  The Zoo has wanted Orangutans for years.  The Zoo should have been fundraising for this the while time.  This project is in a high profile area of the Zoo, it has to be done right.    Since the Dayroom opened, the Chimps have been a big draw.  People love them and they love the new areas.  They can't cheap out on Triple Grotto.  It has to look like it belongs with the two other areas.  I'm sure our Curator will have a wonderful plan, and I hope the Zoo listens and allows him to create more greatness for our Apes, old and new.

Chimpanzee Introductions! Cobby and Qadeer Sharing the Same Space!

Another piece in the new and enriching journey of our Chimps!

Last week, I happened upon the first day of introductions between Cobby and Qadeer!  So exciting!  I had no idea they were at this stage yet, as last I knew they were still at the distance stage, first of three, that included subsequent stages of separation by glass and then fencing.  So I was shocked when I shadowed the path viewing glass and saw Qadeer, then Cobby!

I had noticed that our three long-time residents had not had access to the Triple Grotto the visits I made the week before.  Someone said they heard that they were no longer going to be able to have access, as the Zoo was going to start renovating that for Orangutans.  I will post about this separately.   ... I only note it here as I have to wonder if introductions weren't fast-tracked because of the loss of access to the Triple Grotto and having the Dayroom as the Chimps only? enclosure area at this time?  Which would mean if they weren't introduced asap, then either Cobby, Maggie and Minnie would be locked in the Bedrooms, or Qadeer would.  You don't see the steam coming from my ears, but since the new yard is still no where near finished, if this is the actual scenario, that would mean the Chimps have no outside access.  The thought of this is very upsetting. 

I knew the plan was to introduce Cobby and Qadeer first (the two males), and then the girls.  You can view my video of short clips taken on my cell phone, as I was out of battery power on my camera, after spending the morning watching our Park Owls new babies!  You can view videos of the Owlets on my Youtube if interested.  

https://youtu.be/NBdYkqZOrVI

Ok, I digressed. I was so happy to be able to see this process in the early stages.  I didn't think it would be public, but lucky to have the experience.  I haven't talked about my interpretation with anyone, but as you can see, it seemed to be going very well.  I hope I'm right!

When I walked up, Cobby was in the top left corner, and Qadeer on the bottom.  For the most part Qadeer had range of the lower area and Cobby the top.  I watched for an hour and a half and while they stayed stationary in certain areas at times, there was initiation of play on Cobbys part, with what looked like him gesturing to Qadeer to join in the play.  While that didn't seem to put Qadeer off, he didn't accept the invite and retreated to the Keeper fence, where Curator Joe Knobbe gave him a mirror.  The mirror seemed to keep him comfortable.  ... The video opens with a smiling Cobby.  He was on top when I walked up and about twenty minutes later as he made his way around the room, he came over to the window, as he does when he sees me, and was smiling huge and gesturing about his new Friend!  I was happy that he wanted to share this with me, but also apprehensive to respond to him because I didn't want to interfere with what was going on, knowing Chimps behavior can easily change. I stepped back a bit and then he remembered the daily boot check, and stood up to see my boots.  So cute, he does this every visit!  Never gets old.  Then he sat back down, still smiling.  I didn't want him to think I didn't love him by not responding, so I smiled back and shook my head a bit to acknowledge and said, That's your new friend!  That's when I took the clip and he was still smiling, then went off.

I'm so happy that this appeared to be going smooth.  I was worried about us getting another male as Cobby hasn't been around another male for near fifty years.  Maggie and Minnie have never been with other Chimpanzees, except Cobby and our beloved Tallulah.  I Love our Chimpers, they have been great in behavior toward Qadeer.  Qadeer had it rough in his previous social group, so this needs to be good for all of them. 

The next day, was the same between them.  No close interaction, but I witnessed another initiation of play from Cobby.  Will add the link when I post it, and definitely to the first day video.

https://youtu.be/UgKkFD48ozY

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Blogger's Statement
"Personal Opinions and Facts presented publicly are Not against the law or any rules. ... Censorship and Retaliation Actions in an attempt at Suppression are frowned upon by Healthy Societies."
For Full Statement see this post:
https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/09/my-zoo-status.html
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Orangutans On Their Way?

Usually when I write about something that I find upsetting, its after the fact, meaning after I learned more, see more, etc.,  but with this in recent news, I feel I have to post about it now.  If this happens in the time frame noted in this article, it seems it would most likely be, before a proper habitat is available to them?  That, would make me very upset, if this sweet guy had to live in an inadequate home.

                http://www.erienewsnow.com/story/39966939/erie-zoo-orangutan-heading-west

After I read this initial news article Thursday night, I got increasingly upset and anxious.  I thought about waiting until I had more information, but then yesterday more articles came through my email news alert.  So I'm just going to leave this here and note the things about this that are troublesome.  Maybe the Zoo will enlighten us with some information, since its made the news at Eries's end.  

I have wondered what will happen to Triple Grotto (current home of the Chimpanzees), once full integration of Chimps is done.  As I understand it, when that time comes they will shift the night accommodations of our long-time three over to the new bedrooms that are in the Pachyderm Building, where our new Chimp is already in residence.  The Chimps still like to go to Triple Grotto, its their familiar place, and I think its still to early to take that away from them, even with the new areas.  But that's just me.  ... While I know the old Chimp House needs work, I also know both Skytrails will be attached to it (a second one will run from South Grotto side of house to new yard area at side of Pachyderm Building), so the basic frame and/or foundation of that structure has to remain in place.   I have always thought the best use of the space would be to fill in the moats (and glass/mesh off the perimeter), which would extend the current essentially non-existent topical space of the islands.  I heard there were no confirmed plans for Triple Grotto, and that in the future it might be used as the quarantine and in part for introductions of new Chimps.  The Zoo is planning to add a few more this year.  So, I'm surprised to read Orangutans are on the way.

So that said, my initial emotion when I read this article, was sadness.  Where is this Orangutan and from what the article noted, a second one (for breeding) going to live?  There is currently No proper habitat for them.  Are they going to just be tossed into Triple Grotto, to literally sit like bumps on a log like the poor Chimps were for fifty years?  The Triple Grotto is desperate for a make-over.

When the Chimp Expansion (dayroom and outside yard) is finished and opened, that does not "free up" an exhibit.  Part of the situation surrounding the Chimp disrespect, was that Triple Grotto as it is, is outdated, and not a proper exclusive habitat for any Great Ape.  

Those who have followed the Chimps story will understand, those who haven't, in short,  in 2015,  Zoo Director Tanya Peterson tried to kick our Senior Three out, in favor of bringing in Orangutans. With the loss in 2013 of our precious Tallulah, the Chimps group went down to three, and if the Zoo wanted (?) to keep them, they would have to add to the group, which also meant they would have to upgrade the Triple Grotto and/or build them additional space or the AZA would not send the Zoo more Chimps. For more details you can visit my blog dedicated to this situation ... http://savesfzoochimps.blogspot.com/

I know that Orangutans are in the Zoo's future.  Don't get me wrong, I look forward to seeing these beauties again, BUT I seriously thought that Triple Grotto would be renovated before their arrival.  So again, I have to wonder with drear, where will these poor Beings live?  

The Zoo is currently juggling several projects, so its a curious time for this.  The Chimp Expansion is still not complete.  The Primate staff is still in early stages of introduction of Chimps.  Then new Chimps are scheduled.  They just tore down the Primate Center for the Madagascar project, which hasn't even started.  The Snow Leopard expansion is set to start soon.  And there is rumor that a project using Wild Horses in a therapy program is about to be put into motion.  Don't even get me started on this.  

So, my questions are, where are the Orangutans going to live?  In Triple Grotto as is?  Is there a secret plan to transform Triple Grotto into a proper habitat in the next few months?  Or is the Zoo planning to hoard them away, like the Fossa, while they sit and wait for a proper place to live?  Will they be stuck in quarantine?  In the Hospital?  By all accounts FCC is full, holding Animals that have no other place to live.  As well, I would think it's not designed to hold Great Apes.

As there is an Orangutan on the GAP (Great Ape Passage) sign,  Triple Grotto is the only place they can permanently go, so, I sure hope there is a plan to make Triple Grotto better for the Orangutans, and BEFORE they get here!  

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Blogger's Statement
"Personal Opinions and Facts presented publicly are Not against the law or any rules. ... Censorship and Retaliation Actions in an attempt at Suppression are frowned upon by Healthy Societies."
For Full Statement see this post:
https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/09/my-zoo-status.html
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Bili the Bullied Bonobo at Wuppertal Zoo

I've been networking this situation since early yesterday morning.  While there is no SFZoo connection, I am writing a post here for further awareness.  

I'm not sure how far Bili's story has reached.  This may be news to most.  I follow Wales Ape and Monkey Sanctuary (WAMS), that is where I learned of Bili's plight.  I had read in recent comments, the mention of Bili needing to be rescued, but didn't make the connection until WAMS posted this video a few nights ago.  

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=M0piq4k_pK0&fbclid=IwAR2FLHJnReZUBKxs76Z4FnbDMXAnXShnAWrPAKANVqxNRvx5ZY0i-LJOteI

I couldn't watch more than a couple minutes.  I found it disturbing that Zoo Staff did not intervene and separate the group, in order to get Bili to safety.  I don't claim to know the full story, but I have read alot about the situation and think I know all the details that have been made public.  First, in regards to this video, it appears that this is an introduction FAIL.  I understand introductions aren't always smooth, but when you see an Animal in danger you must remove it and restart your process.  Anything less is a moral crime. 

I hate to place blame as I am not a part of this Zoo's community, so I have no idea what goes on there.  But, things appear to be seriously twisted with this horrifying scenario, both by what is seen in this video and by statements from Wuppertal Zoo Officials.   So again I say, it's disturbing that Bili was not separated from the group during this attack, and previous that have left him with bleeding wounds and half his ear bit off.   Zoo Officials have not countered the masses interpretation of this attack on Bili, but instead, stand by their decision to let him stay in this group, being severely attacked and left to fend for himself, even if it's life threatening.  The Wuppertal Zoo's Dr. Arne Lawrenz has been quoted saying, that if the situation doesn't improve he could be euthanized!  This is an outrageous and inexcusable plan of action.  If I had not heard these statements, I might have not been so judgmental, since I'm not there to see for myself, but yea, can't help but be, when those in charge have no problem with allowing this poor Being to be brutalized. 

Since our own SFZoo is currently in the process of introducing a new male Chimpanzee to our three long-time resident Chimps, all who have not seen a Chimp outside their small group for fifty years, I have an idea of what a decent introduction plan is.  The plan being used here is, a three step barrier introduction process.  Access first from a Distance, then through Glass, then with Mesh between them.  The Chimps behavior will dictate the time between steps.  When Staff is comfortable, there will be a one-on-one intro between the males first.  When the Staff is comfortable that has been successful, the new male will be introduced to our two females.  Introducing Apes can be a long process.  Apes, are unpredictable, and can be violent.  Keeping all this in mind, I have to wonder, what was the protocol for introducing Bili to this group?  Was there even one?  It looks like they just tossed him in there. By all accounts there are not multiple rooms at this facility to even conduct isolated introductions. 

Let's also talk about Bili's history.  Born at Twycross Zoo in the UK, he was rejected by his Mum, and hand-raised.  Then sent to Frankfurt, where he was taken in by a Mother figure Bonobo and lived for ten years.  With no breeding options there, he was moved to Wuppertal.  So, sorry again to be judgmental, but here we have another instance of a move for breeding that has gone very wrong.   And again, an Animal might lose it's life.  

Yesterday I corresponded with two high level Animal Professionals in regard to Bili's situation.  Both said they had little details about this situation, although one said there were professionals advising.  One who has experience with Bonobo's specifically said that, it's possible that because Bili was hand-raised he may never be able to be integrated into a group.  Bonobo's are a Matriarchy. Without the protection of a Mother (like he had in Frankfurt) he might be killed, if left in a group, as opposed to with a couple others he might get along with.

So, as it stands, in the wake of public outrage since the video was posted, it has been reported that the Zoo has closed public access to the Bonobo exhibit.  ... There are two Petitions to have Bili removed from Wuppertal. ...  There will be an on site Demonstration tomorrow.  

Two weeks ago Wales Ape and Monkey Sanctuary offered to give Bili a forever home.  They got no reply, until very recently, when they have posted this morning that they were headed to Wuppertal for a meeting!  Hopefully they will head back to Wales with Bili.

I have started a Facebook Group for awareness outreach as well.  Save Bili the Bullied Bonobo at Wuppertal Zoo
https://www.facebook.com/groups/146493392951733/
It contains pertinent links, articles, photos, Petitions.  Have a look if you are interested in more details or want to join the discussions. More in-depth discussion on the Wales Ape and Monkey Sanctuary Page. 

Please Help Bili by sharing his story.  Thank you.

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Blogger's Statement
"Personal Opinions and Facts presented publicly are Not against the law or any rules. ... Censorship and Retaliation Actions in an attempt at Suppression are frowned upon by Healthy Societies."
For Full Statement see this post:
https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/09/my-zoo-status.html
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New > Chimps Meet Their New Friend Qadeer!

After the sadness of losing two dear Zoo Friends, I skipped a week of going to the Zoo.  I almost skipped last week, but felt the need to go.  I'm glad that I did, it gave me a bit of peace, as well allowed me to be a part of our Chimps continuing new adventures.

The Chimps had already eaten breakfast in the Triple Grotto, so when the Dayroom opened, I expected Qadeer would be in there.   Then the skytrail door was open.  Very curious.  What happened next I did not expect!  

The Chimps came from Triple Grotto, through the skytrail door, Maggie first, then Minnie and finally Cobby.  Maggie came straight down, making a beeline for the front.  She will usually check the window first, which she did, but never stopped like she usually does, without missing a beat, continued toward the Keeper door.  I was talking to someone, and side watching, assuming that she would stop at Keeper door, but then she was gone?!   In the split second that I realized that, she had gone through the door to the new bedrooms and I heard screaming!  In that same moment, Minnie heard her scream, and with a huge smile, she started to scream and ran from the middle platform towards the door after her, Cobby then made a hurried dash from the top, as if he didn't want to miss what was going on!   It happened so fast, and I was so surprised, that I didn't get video of them going in, except for the tail end.

They were all three back there screaming, you could hear them from the other side of the wall.  Such a joyful sound, they were so happy!  After about 7-10 minutes, the Girls ran out, still screaming with the hugest smiles!   They were all over the place with their excitement!  Two Staffers were at the outside viewing window and walking away as they both ran over and sat there, looking like they were telling people they saw their new friend.  So heartwarming.  Cobby came out and came right up to me and pursed his lips, either giving kisses or soft hoots. He surprised me.  I was worried he would be so upset when meeting a new Chimp, especially a male, but wow, he was as calm as can be.  His hair wasn't on end, he wasn't stomping and rocking, just calm.  I'm crying as I write this, because these babies are amazing.  I feel this is going to work out wonderfully and I will witness a new Family group forming.  

I was able to get a few video clips of the excitement.  This pic is a screencap from one.

Can't Contain Chimp Excitement!

Minnie and Maggie after 

seeing Qadeer for the First time!

See the whole Video:

https://youtu.be/V48nnd_6bSw

The Chimps of course went back in, and there was more hootin' and hollerin' over the next couple hours.  The following day, the same thing.  Minnie and Cobby had more interest in food after the initial visit.  Then it was just Cobby in the Dayroom, relaxed and having his greens.  Very good sign that he was still so calm and that he had no problem with the Girls staying in and visiting with Qadeer without him.

I've seen Qadeer several times.  

Here is a video of clips from those visits.

https://youtu.be/_deC83buCAM

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Blogger's Statement

"Personal Opinions and Facts presented publicly are Not against the law or any rules. ... Censorship and Retaliation Actions in an attempt at Suppression are frowned upon by Healthy Societies."

For Full Statement see this post:

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/09/my-zoo-status.html

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Zoo ReNames New Chimp - Qadeer becomes Gombo - Sad

This post was in a "coming soon" post that I never got back to.  So I'm bumping it up in a new post and for anyone who's following, the previous post will be re-titled, as it contains links to all the Chimp fun from the first day our Cobby, Minnie and Maggie came face-too-face with Visitors in the new Playroom.  I'll link the old post at the end of this one, in case anyone missed it. 

So, lots has happened with our new Chimp Friend Qadeer, since I posted about his arrival.  A couple weeks ago, he gained access to the Dayroom, and last week, came face-to-face with his new Friends!  I will make a couple separate posts to highlight those exciting adventures!  

If you missed the Meet the Zoos New Chimp post,  you can learn more about Qadeer here: https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/11/meet-zoos-new-chimpanzee-chimp.html

So yea, the Zoo felt it necessary to sell the rights to rename Qadeer.  I knew this would happen. So predictable.  I hate the renaming thing, and renaming a Great Ape who knows his name, just awful. 

So in exchange of money, after 33 years Qadeer is now named Gombo.  Sad. 

 

From the Video in the Dayroom Visitor Gallery

Well, I at least hoped the person tried to give him a native related name, and not a celebrity or vanity name, but where I thought I initially read there was an African relation to the name, I have done some research and now find nothing other than its another name for Gumbo, the Creole food dish.  So yea, Zoo allowed someone to rename Qadeer after food.  I did find that Qadeer means Powerful and Capable. ...  Maybe there was a mistake and they meant Gombe, which is relatable to a native region.  But still, there it is in print, Gombo.  Sad. 

I've written alot on name changing.  It's one of my biggest and long running issues.  It just really bothers me.  I may be alone in this, but I think its disrespectful.  I understand it from a fundraising angle, but I wish the Zoo would be more creative and find other ways to raise money.  Putting a sign up that says this Animals care has been sponsored by,... would be better and more prominent than changing a name.  Aside from the disrespect, I think it messes the Animals up.   I have heard that in more recent years than when I first start writing about it, the real names are being used by the Keepers.  But, that hasn't always been true.  For example, and I loved this girl, so my heart really broke for her in this regard.  When the Zoo acquired female Siberian/Amur Tiger Shastyuh RIP, her Keeper at the time continued to use her real name, even though at ten yrs old she had been renamed Martha.  When that Keeper left, remaining staff were forced to use Martha.  I always use their really names.  When I would talk to Shastyuh she knew.  Once I was talking to her and I heard a Keeper from inside trying to call her in.   Martha, Martha, Martha-Shastyuh, ... ridiculous.  Shastyuh never went in and just sat there and stuck her tongue out lol!  Glad it wasn't an emergency that they needed to call her in for.  And our Leanne (Tiger), who used to be called her real name Skylar by that previous Keeper, exclusively became Leanne.  She doesn't even look when you say Hi Sky anymore.  Identity lost.  And poor Tucker (Hippo), he's been renamed twice!  Both times after ballplayers, using both first and last names. UG.  Anyway those are just a few irritations. Also, before I stop with this, let's wonder what happens to Animals that then get transferred out. Thankfully our Bali RIP (Tiger) who SFZoo called George, was still under the care of the Keeper who used real names, because when he moved to another Zoo, they went back to calling him Bali.  But, what happens with our Bronevik (Tiger) who just moved to Omaha.  At 5 yrs old, he too knew his name but was renamed, JT.  I don't know what Keepers called him, but I sure hope he retained his name of Bronevik and will hold on to it in Omaha.  And last the biggest disrespect of all, hands down in Zoo history, poor Falcor RIP (Komodo Dragon) at two yrs old, he knew his name, yet was renamed Big Daddy Bahasa.  Big Daddy, NO ANIMAL should be called Big Daddy anything.  Just awful.  And Bahasa, literally means the word language in Indonesian.  So from Falcor, a nod to the Dragon in the classic movie The Never Ending Story, to Big Daddy Language.  Seriously, at the very least the Zoo and his Keepers could have referred to him as Bahasa, but NO, everything was Big Daddy this, Big Daddy that.  So Awful and Sad that poor Falcor had to hear that constantly, and literally on loop in the video outside his home.  RIP My Friend, at least you don't have to hear that anymore.  Heartbreaking. 

I would suggest that if the Zoo is going to continue to sell off naming rights, some guidelines be attached to the privilege, like no celebrity names, no multiple names (first and last included), basically no joke names, BUT the Zoo itself changes names of Animals that don't even follow those guidelines, for example the male Black Howler Monkey.  His name is Benjamin and was renamed by the Zoo, Robin Williams.  Ridiculous.  Why?  Like ballplayer names, most likely for fleeting media attention.  UG.  Others come to mind, but I can't even. 

I just want to make another notation about renaming Animals.  Since this post is about a Chimpanzee, I'll make the example keeping with that, but it relate to any Animal.  

I've written about my history with the Zoo before, but in short, after long life of visiting the Zoo, in 2008, my visits increased and I started to learn more about the Animals as individuals.  In addition to talking with Keepers to learn their names and about their lives at the time, I did my own research with included, internet searches by name, genealogy using studbooks, reading every SFZoo related article in the sfgate archive and every Joint Zoo Committee Meeting Agenda and Minutes.  I'm pretty thorough when researching something I'm passionate about and I had become so endeared to the Animals, that knowing about them was important.  

For this example, I'm going to use our Chimpanzee Cobby.  Cobby is the longest living Resident at the Zoo.  Cobby came to the Zoo at ten years old, so he had a life before the SFZoo.  SFZoo was the first and only home of our Maggie and Minnie. If Cobby's name had been changed, I would have never learned about his life before the Zoo.  I would not have learned, after he was taken from the wild, he lived with a human family.  He worked in entertainment.  He had his own tv show.  He ended up at the Zoo, when he aged out and his humans wanted to work with Elephants instead.  I love this guy, and even though I didn't know his history til 2008, I've known him my whole life, and because of this time in my life when the universe has chosen the Zoo as one of my final passions,  I know who Cobby is.   

In my opinion, changing an Animals name robs them of their identity, and robs those who become endeared to them, the chance to learn more about them. 

Old post is now titled "Chimps First Day in New Playroom! - Video Links" but blog url didn't change, so remains reflective of original title. 

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/12/sfzoo-changes-name-of-new-chimp.html

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Blogger's Statement

"Personal Opinions and Facts presented publicly are Not against the law or any rules. ... Censorship and Retaliation Actions in an attempt at Suppression are frowned upon by Healthy Societies."

For Full Statement see this post:

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/09/my-zoo-status.html

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Chimps First Day in New Playroom! - Video Links

In case you missed any of my efforts documenting the Chimps their first day in the new playroom, here is a list.  The videos are must see's if you are fans of these precious Friends!

Videos - All from first day (Thanksgiving) in playroom seeing visitors face to face!

Chimps in New Playroom- Interacting with Visitors For First Time ... MUST SEE!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rNZ-YoQp2bw

Inside Visitor Gallery + Chimps + Zoo Displayed Video of First Time in Playroom

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UVDKaNP_hLY

Chimps Interacting with Visitors

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-J6TWOYbm3g

Minnie

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pKW7ooF1-jc

Maggie

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HCdYKydiZ0A

Cobby

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-pN6Vfxx04

Related blog posts:

11.24.18 .. includes cute pix!  ...  Description of the Chimps first time face to face with visitors :)

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/11/having-time-of-their-life-chimps-inside.html

11.28.18 .. includes historical pix displayed on walls inside. 

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/11/a-view-inside-new-chimp-playroom-and.html

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Blogger's Statement

"Personal Opinions and Facts presented publicly are Not against the law or any rules. ... Censorship and Retaliation Actions in an attempt at Suppression are frowned upon by Healthy Societies."

For Full Statement see this post:

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/09/my-zoo-status.html
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A View Inside The New Chimp Playroom and Visitor Gallery + Video Displayed by Zoo of Chimps First Time in Playroom

This project has been beautifully completed.  I documented the whole exhibit, inside and out for everyone to experience, as I know there are people who have loved our Precious Chimps for many years and can't make it here to see this.  

I will put together several videos, as I took probably over an hour worth of footage.  A view of the exhibit, the video that plays inside of the Chimps first time in the new Playroom, and of course, tons of footage of these Friends, having the time of their life!  

I have got two videos put together so far.  More to come of the Chimps, having the time of their life!  Subscribe to my youtube channel or follow me on Twitter so you don't miss any of the next videos of the Chimps new adventures!  ... 

Video of Chimps coming face to face with visitors for the first time!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rNZ-YoQp2bw

Video associated with this post.  Inside Visitor Gallery, Chimps, and Zoo's Video.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UVDKaNP_hLY

The video of the inside will include many photos that are on the walls inside the visitor area.  This is one of the first you see, and my favorite.  I absolutely love this photo!  Our precious babies. 

The faces of the two standing look like Minnie on the right and Maggie on the left.  The fourth Chimpanzee should have had her name included. Her name was Tallulah.  At age eight, she arrived at the Zoo, donated from a private owner in 1967.  She lived at the Zoo until she passed in 2013.  The first of the four to arrive, followed in 1968 by ten year old Cobby, and in 1970 by one year old babies Maggie and Minnie.  They have lived together as a Family for over forty-five years. 

"Cobby, Minnie and Maggie still reside in the Triple Grotto today", ... because of me. 

The following photos are included in the Exhibit video, but I'm posting them here so they are more easily viewed and text can be read.  There were many more photos, but I'm only uploading the Historical ones here, plus the one that shows the expansion plan layout.  If you watch the video and want to see any of the others, let me know in a comment.

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Enlarge to see Expansion plan layout.

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Blogger's Statement
"Personal Opinions and Facts presented publicly are Not against the law or any rules. ... Censorship and Retaliation Actions in an attempt at Suppression are frowned upon by Healthy Societies."
For Full Statement see this post:
https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/09/my-zoo-status.html
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Having The Time Of Their Life! - Chimps Inside New Playroom!

I have so many feelings to convey.  Maybe no one will understand why I am so emotional about this, and that's ok.  I've been on a long journey with these Friends, helping them get this, and experiencing it with them, its one of the most important things to happen in my life.  To happen in their life. 

While waiting for the doors to open, I peeked in the window that is viewable from the path.  You can see the girls in that window in the above photo.  At the time, the Chimps weren't in there yet, and the reflections on the glass made it impossible to see the whole room, but just seeing the area, the structure, the newness, all for them, I started sobbing.  I even facebooked and tweeted a photo of me in tears.  

The tears didn't end there.  I cried for most of the next three and a half hours I watched these babies,  having the time of their life.  This experience for them is decades in the making.  This is the first time in fifty years that they have ever been able to interact with visitors. Until now they have only been "on display", being watched from afar.  Now they can be up close, only separated by glass, equals.  

I have spent alot of time visiting these Friends, so being face to face with them was incredible.  After all these years, I could look them in the eyes.  I used incredible, but it was something I can't really explain.  Hard to believe, but even I was speechless most of the time, crying and just saying it was beautiful.  I'm crying as I write this and look below to this photo of Cobby making eye contact with me. 

Hi Cobs!

Another interaction with Cobby, was when the crowd thinned and he was looking at my boots.  When he went to the path window, I went out there and he could see my boots better. I looked into his eyes and had a conversation with him.  I asked if he liked my boots and I moved my feet as he watched.  A friend all these years and we were finally on the same level, silently communicating.  Amazing.

When the Chimps first came in, it was Maggie who ran up to the window.  She was immediately interacting with the visitors.  She especially went up to kids, in fact over the hours, I saw her make sure to greet every kid that came to the window.  It was amazing.  She could be away from the window getting food and see a new face and she would run over and greet them.  Much of the time she carried around a branch of acacia browse, and waved it at the window playfully.  She also did a fairy godmother action, as if anointing them.  And you, and you, and you! Tapping the branch at their heads.  It was really cute.  She also sat there just laughing with people.  It was amazing!

Maggie Interacting! 

While Maggie worked the window, Minnie went up to one of the high platforms and took advantage of the view while she had her Thanksgiving meal.  Cobby came towards the window following Maggie.  He stopped half way there and started to sway.  Those who know him know he does a movement when he is excited where he sways back and forth, looks like a dance, but is either one of two things, happy excited, or upset excited.  When I saw this for a second I was worried, but noticed he was stomping in place happily!   After a few minutes he came to the window and sat.  He surprised me the most.  Over the hours, he sat at the window calmly, sometimes for more than fifteen minutes at a time.  He had his hands and footies on the window.  People put their hands up to his.  He was so comfortable, at one point he rolled over on his back, tucked his legs up in fetal position, turned his head into his shoulder and just smiled a big happy smile.  I melted seeing him so at ease.  It was heartwarming.

Cobby interacting!

  Maggie Happy to See Visitors!

Maggie ran about the room, sometimes trying to tease Cobby into playing.  They did their chase and dance, that I've only got to see part of in the past, as the topical space of the triple grotto islands doesn't allow for much room for them to run around.  It was really cute.

After Minnie finished eating she went and joined Maggie at the window at the path.  When Maggie came to the inside window, Minnie followed.  I think she may be a bit shy.  After a few minutes she started to interact with some kids.  She seemed to be playing with them, with window taps and head nods.  It felt good to see her having fun with the interaction.   She seemed to get more comfortable and went and sat at the path window again for a longer period of time.  I went out, not only to see her, but to tell a guy I could see from inside, to stop banging on the window in her face.  Why do people do such things?  At least he was the only one I witnessed doing such.  The Zoo needs to put signs on the windows, not to bang on them.  They haven't done it at any exhibit windows, but seriously, these seniors don't need this crap. 

Minnie continued to sit in the window and visit with a steady stream of people who wanted to see her.  They all really seem to like this window and being able to see people on their level walking around.

 Minnie Interacting!

Minnie and Me!

Cobby Peacefully Looking Outside.

About a half hour before the room was set to close, all three picked up some food and headed through the doorway to the SkyTrail.  They sat in the trail, enjoying the sun and some yums, before heading back to Triple Grotto.  Back home.  Seeing them make the choice to say, we love our new adventure, but after playing, we go home, just shows how attached they are to their home.  It still breaks my heart, that at this stage of life, they were in jeopardy of losing what was familiar to them.  I felt content with everything that is happening for them.  I want to note, that I hope the Zoo has no plans to demolish Triple Grotto at anytime in the lifetime of these three.  They need the new Playroom, they need the new Yard, but they need the security and comfort Triple Grotto provides them.  It has been their home for fifty years.  

As I expressed, seeing the room had me in tears.  Seeing them in it had me in tears. It was absolutely beautiful.  The project turned out perfect.  I have no complaints.  WHAT?!  Can that be?  While this is true, I do have a couple of things that made me sad. 

It was bittersweet experiencing this with Cobby, Minnie and Maggie.  I immediately thought of Tallulah, and wished that this had happened in her lifetime.  I know she was there with them in spirit, but I would have loved for her to have had this experience.  I love and miss you Miss T!

While seeing how much joy they are getting from a new environment and interacting with people, makes me happy, it also breaks my heart, that they were denied this for so long.  They could have and should have had this so many years ago. 

While I have no complaints about how wonderful the project has turned out, I can not forget the circumstances that made it happen.  No one should. The Chimps are the longest Residents of the Zoo.  The have sat there on display for fifty years.  They arrived at the opening of the Triple Grotto days in the late 60s, and had not seen an upgrade until mid 80s, which brought topical landscaping to the grotto islands and climbing structures all done by Keepers and Volunteers at the time.  In 1997 a City bond, put through by voters to build a new Chimpanzee exhibit, never got done, and no one seems to know what happened to that money. Every person associated with the Zoo, who had the authority to make this happen over the past two decades since then, should be ashamed of themselves for not doing everything in their power to make it happen.  The City, The Rec and Park, The Zoological Society and Donors, and each Zoo Director since 1997, should all be ashamed.  And as I have before, I point the main finger at our current Director Tanya Peterson who in 2015 targeted them for eviction from the only home they have ever known.  Elderly and Senior, after fifty years, being forced out.  Unconscionable. It has been under her reign that our Zoo has seen many projects take precedence over doing what's best for current residents, and foremost upgrading the living environment for the Chimps, who had nothing new in twenty years, and have lived in the same space for fifty.  Anyone with compassion would have wanted to do this for them, and would not have even thought to ship them away from the only home they have known.   It was only after my crusade, media attention and public outrage,  which forced Peterson to let them stay, did they get this.  Its just sad. 

Sorry for the downer thoughts, but these are facts of the situation that brought us to this beautiful time.

This exhibit is going to fast become THE favorite place in the Zoo for every visitor.  I heard every person that came through there using the words, beautiful, amazing, cool, wonderful, everyone that left, left with an experience of interacting with our wonderful Chimps.  

It was a wonderful Thanksgiving Gift.  I am thankful for my Chimper Friends and all the Zoo Friends who I have been lucky to have in my life. 

Hope you enjoyed these photos and my experience.  I took over an hour of video footage and a full SD Card of photos, so it will be a bit before I can post more.  These were among the best from my cell phone. Please check back here or follow me on Twitter, so you don't miss the cuteness I captured!

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https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/09/my-zoo-status.html