They might well do that. Then I would do two other stages;
1. 'Show' this new subgroup to all the other Chimps but only to a few of the established ones at a time e.g. in the offshow areas, allowing limited contact so that all members of the main group become familiar with the newcomers but with the established ones each time in the minority, not as a whole group together.
2. From that, and depending on which others they get on best with, introduce these first so that two groups of roughly equal size are formed, one of them containing the new ones as well as some originals, before finally merging them all together. In this way the acceptance of the newcomers becomes easier with their assimilation with some of the established ones. A lot of trial and error and balancing acts involved perhaps, but that would be my way.
That makes sense, I could definitely see that working. I guess there's three options for which animals to pair with the newcomers in the 50/50 group idea:
One: The most passive/sociable individuals who would pose minimal risk (Sacha, Shikamoo, Sule, Shona etc.). The idea would be these animals would most likely to integrate successfully with the newcomers.
Two: The most dangerous/high risk individuals who are the biggest risk (Shiba, Shabani, Kuma etc.). The idea would be if these animals were to face the newcomers with other Taronga chimps, they'd be more intimidated, and hence more likely to act aggressively, than if they faced them in a more controlled situation where they feel in control
Three: Split family introductions. The idea here is not to introduce Taronga chimps with the full support of family members (which could enhance their tendancy/ability to attack). Ie. introduce Shiba (but not with Shabani and Samaki), introduce Kuma (but not with Furahi). If your 50/50 idea is implemented, chimps like Shabani, Samaki and Furahi will be less volatile if they observe/perceive ambiable relationships between the newcomers and their mothers.
Personally, I would go for option three as the less aggressive individuals may form an amiable relationship with the newcomers, only for this to break down when more familiar chimps are introduced. This is what happened at Hamilton Zoo with the failed introduction of Chima.
The safety of the three infants must also be considered when they are introduced to the five new females. I'd advise each mother is supported by a close (but not highly dangerous source of support):
Kuma (and infant Fumo): supported by Shikamoo (not Furahi)
Shiba (and infant Sudi): supported by Sembe (not Shabani or Samaki)
Lisa (and infant Liwali): supported by Lani (not Lubutu)
The idea is these three individuals are likely to step in and protect the three respective infants, but not esculate the confrontation into a fatal introduction.
What does everyone think???
