March 2010 Update
Its been a busy chaotic month for Mona with the terrible weather that hit us on the 8th. Many electricity pylons are still being fixed along the roads around the sanctuary so the getting back to normal progress was slow. Many thanks to those people who generously donated the much needed Euros to run the hired generator.

Luckily since then Spring has arrived and having warm sunny days has meant the chimps and macaques are able to spend longer outside, relaxing and playing. The grass and chamomile that grows in the enclosures is going crazy this week!

Africa is spending a lot of time with Romie, mostly in room 4 in the main corridor, so she’s really getting used to the noise of the others! She has had a lot to deal with since Christmas, almost daily associations, learning to sleep in a new room, sharing her space! She is showing much more interest with her enrichments too. Before she used to give up too easily and throw it aside but now she´ll take her time and work for the treat. She loves walnuts the most and swiftly cracks them open by stamping on them.

In the male group they´re very content and happy in each others company. Bongo is growing huge and his displays are so impressive. He jumps so high, thumps the ground and his chest and spits. At dinner times he is very well behaved though, being very patient having to wait until last for his food and loves the soup!

In the family things seem settled and Victor appears to be trying very hard to become more a part of the group. He holds out his hand to Toto the leader, grooms him and plays with Nico and Juanito. His relationship with Romie is strong and they always greet each other with tight hugs after being apart. Tico is still happy to keep out of potential confrontation!

In the last few months we have had many people visiting us as working holiday guests and we have really enjoyed introducing them to our work. We have had fantastic feedback from people complimenting our work and many people coming back again. This is a excellent way to support us and for us to meet the people who care, so thank you to those who have spent time here.

Best Wishes,

Charlotte Abrahams (volunteer carer)