Riley's Update

Summer has arrived at the sanctuary, and the chimps are loving the beautiful weather in sunny Louisiana!

Riley is doing well, which is no surprise, because he continues to be the golden child in his big group of girls.

Lately, Riley has taken a particular interest in his neighbors, especially the boys in Zort’s group, stirring up a little chaos whenever he can. As the only male in his group, he’s enjoying the role of self-appointed defender, and making sure everyone knows how big and tough he is now.

Before heading outside, he’ll make a scene by banging on a barrel. He knows no one’s going to put him in his place, though we’re pretty sure the older ladies just roll their eyes at him.

Sometimes the aunties will humor him, acting slightly intimidated to help boost his ego, but we all know they aren’t actually afraid. That’s just what good aunties do.

Despite the occasional chaos, Riley has been making real progress with Positive Reinforcement Training. Lately he’s calmed down significantly, and his biggest area of growth has been learning to practice a bit of restraint, showing more diplomacy and allowing the girls to resolve their own conflicts. The group is building stronger social skills—and so is Riley.

That said, he’s still the same menace we know and love to his neighbors like Zort, Gary, and Dino. Being a nosy neighbor is just part of Riley’s brand.

Because of you, Riley is enjoying another beautiful season at Chimp Haven. Thank you for being his best friend!