Merlin’s View from the Top

Life at Chimp Haven is full of special moments, but few are more heartwarming than watching recent arrivals have new experiences for the first time. 

Last week, Merlin’s small by mighty group of three, who came to us from a research facility in Texas earlier this year, were moved to a new living space. The “corral” is a big, open-top space with grass, open sky, and a huge, multi-level structure to climb and explore. 

To our knowledge, Merlin, Hilde, and Penny likely had never experienced this kind of living space before. Often, when chimps are unfamiliar with new terrain, they’re understandably hesitant. Open spaces can be intimidating, and some chimps stick close to walls or retreat to their bedrooms until they feel secure.

Merlin had different plans. While at first he and his girls were cautious, it didn’t take long for Merlin to climb all the way to the very top of the big structure! Once he’d scaled it, he gazed up at the sky and spent lots of time taking in the view, which offers a vantage point for all the neighboring groups at the sanctuary.

His buddy Hilde soon had her own special moment. As she stepped onto the grass, she quietly stretched her hand above her head as though expecting to feel an invisible barrier above her. When she realized there was nothing holding her back, she eagerly explored the rest of the corral. Not long after, she, too, climbed the structure (though not quite as high as Merlin).

Soon Merlin decided it was time to work his way down, which was a bit more tricky than going up (he’s a pioneer after all!). He took his time and wasn’t discouraged, and since then, he’s been spending lots of time enjoying his new view. 

We are so very grateful to have your support in providing Merlin, Hilde, and all the chimps at Chimp Haven with this wonderful life, full of friends, new experiences, and the very best care. They’ve earned it after all.  From all of us at Chimp Haven, thank you for making these special moments possible!

Chimp Haven