Orangutans in the wild are semi-solitary so the idea of social distancing is one that Amelia can happily get onboard with, as she practices it on a daily basis. After spending a night in her sleeping enclosure with her orangutan orphan peers Doris, Benjamine, Holland, and Clara, Amelia is more than ready to have some time alone. Throughout 2020 the infants at Camp Danielle have still enjoyed their time outdoors learning and playing together as they develop their physical and mental attributes. The infant playgrounds at Camp Danielle remain Amelia’s main stomping grounds as she traverses barrels, ropes, and ladders in her daily “exercise” routine. Amelia makes for an impressive sight as she hangs from the roof and dangles her legs high above the ground.
Amelia is partial to any kind of fruit but these days she has made a habit of grabbing anything her caregivers have, whether it is edible or not. This ranges from fruit to hats and hairbands. Nothing is safe! Once Amelia possesses something, she likes to find a nice private spot to inspect it. Seeing Amelia huddled over some banana leaves, searching for grubs, in a corner of the playground is a common sight these days. Amelia doesn’t always have to take things. Caregivers happily offer her fruit or enrichment items. This seems to take the fun out of it though, and Amelia immediately becomes more particular about what she accepts. Nobody can make Amelia do anything she doesn’t want to do!
Amelia is constantly surprising us and keeping her caregivers on their toes. Proving she is aware of the need for social distancing she throws leaves at any “stranger “(or photographer) she is unfamiliar with. Since the Care Centre continues to be under lockdown, there are no outside visitors, but sometimes an assistant who doesn’t spend much time at Camp Danielle qualifies as a stranger. Amelia’s cautious ways and considered approach to the world will ensure she has all the time she needs to learn key survival skills. We can’t wait to see what she has in store for us next and we’re sure you feel the same.
Click here to download Amelia’s February 2021 Foster Update
