Chimps console chums
19 June 2008
Scientists have now observed chimpanzees comforting another group member who has been in an argument. What does this affection tell us about our closest living relatives? Antenna finds out more...
This research was published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
This research was published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
Chimps express a wide range of emotions.
Image: Filippo Aureli
In 18 months, the researcher recorded 250 fights.
Image: flickr/wordman
Chimps at Chester Zoo often squabble over food, fight for dominance and sometimes get cross just because another chimp sits in their favourite spot. |
'We noticed the chimps are more stressed after a fight. The telltale signs are self grooming, or scratching, which increase in chimps under stressful conditions,' explains Orlaith Fraser from Liverpool John Moores University.
Orlaith Fraser, chimp researcher, Liverpool John Moores University.
Image: Filippo Aureli
So how do chimps calm down?
If a dispute can't be solved by settling their differences, stressed chimps chill out when another chimp, who is not involved in the fight, comforts them. It can be with a hug, a kiss or spot of grooming. This stops the fretting chimp scratching.
Friends offered a hug for comfort.
Image: istockphoto/Windzepher
'We found consolation was more likely to be offered between chimps with a close relationship. It is a form of bonding between these chimps,' says Filippo Aureli, a chimp researcher at Liverpool John Moores University.
Filippo Aureli, Liverpool John Moores University.
Image: Liverpool John Moores University
What do other experts think?
'The evidence is compelling and makes it likely that consolation behaviour is an expression of empathy,' says chimp expert Frans De Waal.
Frans De Waal, Emory University
Image: Wikipedia Commons/Catherine Marin
Is this empathy - do chimps understand how others feel? Are they cuddling to comfort - just as young children do - or is it just an instinct to hug family and friends?