Bodat’s days at Jerora Forest School always begin by watching the animal keepers clean the enclosure. She is usually seen hanging in one corner of her overnight cage, carefully observing every movement with great curiosity. If there is one behavior that truly sets Bodat apart from the others, it is her habit of sucking her thumb—a unique trait that has become her signature behavior.

Together with her group members, Rosi, Annette, and Piet, Bodat continues to participate actively in Forest School. She currently attends two Forest School sessions each month. Bodat’s climbing ability is becoming increasingly impressive. As soon as the tunnel gate leading to the Forest School enclosure is opened, she wastes no time climbing into the forest, quickly making her way into the mid- and upper canopy.

Although the four individuals still prefer to remain together as a group, Bodat has become noticeably more confident during Forest School sessions. Unlike Piet, who occasionally cries when he falls behind the others, Bodat calmly follows her companions as they move through the forest. In fact, there are times when Bodat takes the lead, confidently exploring new areas before the rest of the group follows.

While Bodat and her group have not yet spent the night in the forest, she has already begun displaying early nest-building behavior. During the afternoon distribution of nesting materials in the overnight cage, Bodat has been observed gathering branches and leaves into a single pile, arranging them as though she were building a nest in a tree. Although this behavior is still developing, it reflects an encouraging expression of her natural instincts.

An intensely hot dry season has brought intense daytime heat to the area. Despite the warmer conditions, Bodat remains in good health. However, she has recently been drinking more water and spending more time playing with it. At times, she can be seen splashing water onto her face, seemingly to cool herself down. The dry weather has also influenced the group’s behavior in Forest School. They now spend less time playing near the enclosure fence and instead prefer to remain within the shaded forest, where the cooler environment provides greater comfort throughout the day.

Bodat en Annette

Bodat

Bodat

Bodat