Several weeks now that temperatures are extremely high at J.A.C.K. (48°C / 118.4F in the sun!), which isn’t normal according to what the people of the Sanctuary say.
Young chimp Africa sweating
J.A.C.K. is located southern DRC and there are two seasons: a dry season (max of 17°C/ 62.6 °F – min 5°C/42°F) and a rainy season (max 24°C/75.2°F – min 13°C/ 55°F). Before rains come and at the end of the dry season, there is like a gap season where temperatures can go very high! This is what has rececently happened at J.A.C.K.. So, to keep the chimps ‘cool’, gates were opened at midday till noon sothat the chimps could stay indoors.
Only a few of the chimps wanted to remain inside since most of them rather had water games! Different pools were adapted and regularly provided with fresh water to get the oprhans busy and cool.
Enrichment items helped them drawing water from the different ponds.
And some even lovfor hours and hours in the pool!
Today, Roxane said rains have just started (mainly at night) and that temperatures are milder. Hopefully rains won’t be like last year as, remember, different flu outbreaks started because of the rainy weather!!!
Talk back soon,
J.A.C.K.