THE CHIMPS…… and us

......We sure had a busy time this last month with getting the eggs made and filled and colored. Then some of us came out Easter weekend and manned the table where the kids could fill and decorate eggs. We have some suggestions to make that endeavor less painless next year. The piñata’s finally got put out in late March and from the pictures it seemed like a huge success. Those that watched it suggested that we use hollow legs next time and fill them also.

......Right now a group of observers are taking turns observing Melody for two whole days to record what she eats, when she eats, how much she eats and drinks. Terry and the veterinarian are concerned about her loss of weight and think it may be diabetes but they are not sure yet. Hopefully our observations will help them some way.

......The target date for the transfer of the “Chicago Seven” is May 11th. So be sure to get out to see them before they leave. I just heard that the next annual conference will be in Chicago next September and the new chimpanzee exhibit will be a featured attraction. For those of you who observe Higgy’s group this is a really good time to get out and observe them often because it will be interesting to compare the behaviors before and after the move.

…..and STUFF

......I hope that you will all come to our meeting on May 12th so that we can exchange ideas and resolve any problems. It will be at Phyllis and Lauren Malcom’s home and I will email directions nearer to the date. It will be easier to find than Sharon’s was, I promise.

......Our next meeting after this one will be July 7th and we are looking for a host or hostess, let Eloise know if you are willing to do that.

......Look up links for other zoos with chimps and see what enrichment they are doing. We need some new ideas. Try to bring a suggestion to the next workshop on May 16th.

......We would like to see more of you out observing. The weather has been beautiful out in the preserve so do try to get out often. Check the message section of the web site for observations recorded there. Also check the calendar for dates of our activities.

......I hope you have all seen Michelle’s umbrellas on the soon to be Gibbon Island (used to be Siamangs). They are terrific! That is going to be a knockout exhibit when the gibbons take up residence. I want to thank our guys for their hard work cutting and splitting the bamboo for the roof tops.

......Adam Jacobs will be leaving us
soon to pursue his MBA but he is
going to stay on as webmaster
because he doesn’t want to lose
touch with the group and the chimps.
When he gets bogged down, Karen
Brynes has offered to step in and
take his place. Thanks to both of them.