Chimpanzee Enrichment - Permanent Enrichment

The Chimpanzee & Human Communication Institute was constructed with chimpanzees in mind and has provided this family of chimpanzees with an environment which allows them to run, climb, and enjoy the sunshine. The chimpanzees live in an intellectually interesting environment.

Some of the permanent features incorporated into their environment include:

Concrete Treat Mound

The treat mound allows for food enrichment to be placed in this permanent structure and allows the chimpanzees to creatively fish or dip for food in a way that is similar to the behavior of free-living chimpanzees as they fish for termites in a forest environment. The chimpanzees must fashion tools (sticks & grass) in order to access the food in the treat mound.

Tree Climbing Structure

This structure was built to simulate the movement of a living tree. It moves and shakes when the chimpanzees climb on it. It also gives the chimpanzees another place to sit up high.

The Cave

A secluded area in the enclosure which is out of observers' view. The cave provides an area in which the chimpanzees can escape observation. This allows for the chimpanzees' privacy.

Platforms & Terraces

The CHCI facility was planned and designed with the physical needs of the chimpanzees in mind. The interiors include several platforms and terraces that can be accessed by the chimpanzees.

Murals

On the walls of the East and West Playrooms we have depicted a farm and pond scene, a savanna scene, and familiar objects such as an apple, key, and a brush. These scenes make the indoor environments more visually interesting and provide additional elements to sign about.