Celebrate BINAH’s 16th birthday!
Of the 19 chimpanzees that call Laurie & Carlee McGrath Chateau Side A home, Binah sits near the top. The importance of a chimp group hierarchy cannot be understated and it goes beyond those in the wild. We even see that here in north Georgia with the six family groups that make up the 95 residents living in sanctuary at Project Chimps.
Binah is currently the front runner for alpha within his group. This past year has been one of massive interpersonal development for Binah and the care staff are so proud to see him developing relationships with his groupmates. He’s always been a high-ranking male with his authoritative style, historically focused on strength and intimidation. But, over the past year, he’s made progress in building positive relationships through play and grooming. Additionally, he’s been practicing more measured responses when intervening in group conflicts. In short, he’s made a lot of progress and seems to be growing into his full leadership potential.
We get to witness different levels of growth with each retired research chimpanzee in our care but, when a chimp grows behaviorally and politically as Binah has, there’s a special sense of joy and pride.
Today, January 22, Binah celebrates his 16th birthday! If you’d like to send him a birthday gift, you can grab some dried fruits and/or mixed nuts from our Amazon Wish List.