I suspect that may be at least partially due to the all-female composition of the 'group' (it isn't a proper social group as it is) Without males to liven up the proceedings there is little stimulus for the females to do much except sit or lie around quietly in the most comfortable place- indoors. Another photo shows them doing that.
Does anyone know where this all female group came from (Twycross springs to mind), or indeed how old they are? - they've been at Dudley a long while now.
Would it be worth introducing males at this late stage or better to let them live through retirement in peace and quiet?
They came from London Zoo-, where they were originally part of a large breeding group. I don't have details of their ages but middle-aged would describe most of them. In exchange for them, London had the two older females(Cherry & Bella) from Dudley, who had lived in the 1960's Apehouse with a male (Pepe). At Dudley 'Pepe' was introduced to the new female group in the new enclosure, but being the only male they severely dominated him. There is a rumour they eventually killed him, but he certainly died without any further breeding.
It would be far more natural to have males in the group- at least two, preferaby more, but though they talk about it, nothing happens. I believe it is a safety issue, as male Chimps are potentially among the most dangerous animals in a Zoo, and Dudley's electrified fencing around the outdoor area could be insufficient to contain them.
Thanks for the info Pertinax. I assumed they were much older, but being only middle-aged then males should definitely be introduced to create a more natural social group, if it weren't for that fence.
I believe it was upgraded with more equipment etc a few years back, hence its altered appearance. Sadly this didn't involve making the enclosure fence more secure so they can keep males as well.
