Pickles, Paper, and Plenty of Personality: Meet Natsu

Louie

If there’s one word that perfectly describes Natsu, it’s fun, closely followed by mischievous. This energetic chimpanzee is always up to something, and more often than not, she’s doing it right by Mowgli’s side. The two are inseparable, moving through their days as a matched set, always ready for play, exploration, or a little harmless trouble.


Natsu’s name means “summer” in Japanese, and it couldn’t be more fitting. She brings sunshine and sass wherever she goes. Whether she’s cozied up in her favorite nesting material of big sheets of butcher paper wrapped just the way she likes them, or proudly parading around with an old boot balanced on her back, Natsu has a way of turning everyday moments into entertainment.


She’s endlessly curious and quick to notice everything. If a caregiver “accidentally” drops something she shouldn’t have, such as a trash can lid, you can be sure Natsu is already plotting. She’ll spend a good hour watching, waiting, and planning her next move. It’s all part of the mischief, and she’s very good at it.


When it comes to snacks, Natsu has strong opinions. She adores tomatoes, ice, sunflower seeds… and for enrichment treats, just about any condiment she can get her hands on. Pickles, in particular, have earned a special place in her heart. The crunch, the tang, the unmistakable flavor, pickles capture her full attention and are enjoyed slowly, thoughtfully, and with obvious delight.



Throughout, Natsu’s personality shines. She’s playful, clever, and full of life, a chimpanzee who keeps her caregivers smiling and her companions on their toes. Natsu reminds us every day that joy often comes with a little bit of sass and maybe a pickle or two. 

T-Shirt Design Contest Update: Spotlight on Sandra & Jethro

We’ve loved seeing the creativity already coming in for our Graphic Design Contest, and we’re excited to share a little more inspiration as we continue searching for the perfect design for this year’s Annual Spring Member Day T-shirt.


Our hope for this design is something truly original and artist-created, celebrating two very special orangutans—Sandra and Jethro. While we’ve received a variety of creative submissions so far, we’re especially eager to see hand-drawn, illustrated, or digitally designed artwork that captures their personalities and the spirit of Center for Great Apes.


Because the winning artwork will be printed on T-shirts and other apparel, designs should be submitted as a PNG or vector file and be suitable for professional printing. Think bold, clean, and wearable—something you’d be excited to see on a shirt at Member Day (and beyond!).


Contest Deadline:

Designs must be submitted by 5:00 PM on Saturday, January 31st.


How to Submit:

Please email your artwork to Lauren, Donor Programs Coordinator, by the deadline above. donorprograms@centerforgreatapes.org


What the Winner Receives:

If your design is selected and printed, you’ll receive:

  • A Great Ape Hero Membership (valued at $350)
  • Four tickets to our two Member Events
  • A private sanctuary tour for up to four people to where you can meet Sandra and Jethro
  • And a T-shirt featuring your winning design


Have More Ideas?

We’re also happy to see additional original apparel designs inspired by orangutans, chimpanzees, CGA residents, or life at the sanctuary. If those designs are featured in the future, they may also be eligible for a Great Ape Hero Membership.


If you’ve been thinking about entering, this is the perfect moment. We can’t wait to see more Sandra-and-Jethro-inspired creativity come to life!

A New Year Reminder: Membership Renewal Time

Louie

Memberships now run on a January–December calendar year, and renewals are due by the end of January. To be applied toward membership status, contributions must be designated specifically as membership gifts. General donations, while always deeply appreciated, are directed to the daily care of the apes and do not count toward membership.


Later this month, you’ll receive our annual Membership Drive and renewal notices, making it easy to renew or join for the year ahead.


As a small thank-you, members who renew early or join before notices are mailed will receive a commemorative Center for Great Apes member magnet—a simple way to show your support and your connection to the sanctuary.


Membership Levels

  • Individual – $75

E-newsletters, member updates, and one ticket to member events

  • Couple – $125

E-newsletters, member updates, and two tickets to member events

  • Family – $150

E-newsletters, member updates, and four tickets to member events

  • Great Ape Hero Family – $350

All Family benefits, plus a private guided sanctuary tour

for up to four people (by appointment)


Membership support helps us plan responsibly, provide consistent lifelong care, and offer meaningful ways for members to stay connected to the orangutans and chimpanzees who call the sanctuary home.


If you’ve already renewed, thank you—your support truly matters. If not, we invite you to renew or join before the end of the month and start the year knowing you’re making a lasting difference for the apes in our care.

Allie

Employment Opportunities


We are seeking passionate individuals who share our commitment to the well-being of these remarkable great apes. We are currently seeking:


  • Donor Relations/Development Assistant
  • Caregiver
  • Assistant Caregiver


If you possess the skills and experience we are looking for (or know someone who does), we encourage you to apply today! You can visit our employment page on the website for more details on these positions and the application process.

January 15, 2026 - SOLD OUT! Afternoon with the Apes

January 24, 2026 - Ape-ology: In the Field - Enrichment

January 28, 2026 - Afternoon with the Apes

February 11, 2026 - Afternoon with the Apes

January 21, 2026 - Ape-ology: In the Field - Ape-stract Art

February 27, 2026 - Afternoon with the Apes

March 28, 2026 - Spring Member Day

 
 

Other Ways To Help

Donate

Membership

Wishlist

Monthly Giving

Planned Giving

 

Thank you for supporting the Center for Great Apes!

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