It’s already been one year since Tico and Víctor were integrated into the family group. As you can imagine, the association process can be rather complicated and/or lengthy. Even once a new member has been integrated into a group, much time and effort may still be required until the animal is fully accepted or begins to exhibit normal behavioural characteristics.

At present, there are still some difficult moments for our two friends, but these are decreasing despite the plot by Juanito, Toto, Sara and Waty against the “new comers”. Such unjust and discriminatory episodes still yet remind us of similarities between chimpanzees and humans.  Some of the episodes are indeed justified because Tico has no desire to interact with any of the other family members and Victor attempts to interact, but unfortunately goes about it the wrong way!  The pressure among the clan will eventually set things straight, but in the mean time there are still some wonderful scenes such as Victor giving Juanito an early morning hug or Tico timidly reciprocating Juanito’s playful gestures.

Socialization or “becoming friends” assumes a well-being factor among these animals because group living enriches their lives and improves other personal aspects and relationships with their carers.  For example, Victor’s abnormal behaviour and constant rocking while holding a blanket has been reduced and Tico now appears to be more comfortable with his human carers.