Senior chimpanzees in Louisiana were gifted 400 Dr. Seuss books. Their reactions have us rooted to the spot
Home to almost 300 former research chimpanzees, Chimp Haven caregivers often introduce engaging activities to reduce boredom.
Chimp Haven, the world's largest chimpanzee sanctuary in Keithville, received hundreds of Dr. Seuss books from people all across the country. It all started when the sanctuary posted on social media, requesting "used" books for the chimps. Surprisingly, the post met an overwhelming response, and nearly 400 books arrived at Chimp Haven ahead of Dr. Seuss Day on March 2, PEOPLE confirmed.
Chimp Haven in Louisiana is home to almost 300 former research chimpanzees. Since they are highly social and intelligent animals, the caregivers often introduce engaging activities to reduce boredom and support physical and mental well-being. Wild chimps spend 50-80% of their time searching for food. This allows them to stay active and mentally and physically fit. However, chimpanzees in captivity or sanctuaries don't get many chances to exhibit these natural behaviors because they are regularly provided with food and whatever is necessary for survival. To test whether enrichment activities benefit them, researchers provided six captive chimps with a jar of honey. They also gave them artificial tools (like sticks), using which they had to fish the honey out. In the end, the study observed that the chimpanzees became nearly 52% less inactive. Moreover, researchers also found that their foraging behavior increased from 0% to nearly 31%. The research by Maura L. Celli, Masaki Tomonaga, Toshifumi Udono, Mikagu Teramoto, and Kunimaru Nagano was published in ScienceDirect.
Chimp Haven had also requested Dr. Seuss books as part of the animal enrichment program. And, surprisingly, the chimps appeared to love the children's books. In fact, Rebekah Lewis, the sanctuary's director of behavior, explained that some of the chimpanzees flip pages and look at the pictures, just like a human child enchanted by the fantasy world. "They're new textures and smells, bright colors, and something the chimps can manipulate… that curiosity is exactly what we're trying to encourage," she explained. The caregivers also placed treats inside the books to make the experience even more engaging.
Moreover, the staff members created treat bags inspired by two famous characters from "The Cat in the Hat," written by Dr. Seuss. When Chimp Haven first posted on social media requesting books, they didn't expect such generosity from people, Rana Smith, president and CEO, confessed in a statement. However, the sanctuary is grateful for the support. "It's also a wonderful reminder of how many people care about their well-being," she added. "Books came in from all over the country and were delivered into eager hands amongst a chorus of pant-hoots. Mischini's face says it all – the chimps really enjoyed their new reads," the animal sanctuary shared on March 3.
Meanwhile, reacting to the wholesome donation, Jeanette Wiskow commented, "That's so cute; I never knew they'd 'read' books." Similarly, Carol Davis Tone wrote, "They really seem happy and engrossed in those books. They are so smart." Sucrea Hutchinson wrote, "This makes my teacher's heart happy to see them enjoying books!" Megan Descant Williams confessed, "This is the cutest enrichment I’ve seen!" Vivian Brenner commented, "They're actually looking at the pictures! How wonderful."
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