The Risshū, or Beginning of Autumn, has already passed in the Japanese calendar. Compared with the scorching heat we experienced in July, when temperatures came close to 40°C (104°F), it feels a little more bearable now. That said, there's no doubt that the hot days will continue.

For this installment of our "Seasonal Treats" series, we're featuring the delights of summer. It is now the season when we can harvest plums on the institute grounds. The fruits, once green, gradually ripen into a deep red color.

The other day, we introduced some of the chimpanzees' "spring treats." This time, we would like to share their "rainy season treats."

April 24 was Ayumu's birthday!

After a long, bitterly cold winter, we've finally been enjoying many warm days from March into April. The cherry blossoms around the institute quickly came into full bloom—and just as quickly fell. In the gentle spring sunshine, the chimpanzees look very content.

Gon is the oldest chimpanzee at the EHUB. Born in 1966, he turns 60 this year. In Japan, the 60th birthday is a special occasion called kanreki.