Just like humans, star-struck chimps too look up to their heroes
By ANIFriday, June 25, 2010
LONDON - Scientists has found that humans are not alone in their obsession with celebrities; chimps too look up to those they consider more prestigious in their group.
The researchers, from St Andrews University and Yerkes National Primate Research Centre in the US state of Georgia, found the apes copied the actions of those they thought to have high status within their group.
“Our study shows that chimpanzees are similarly selective in their choice of trendsetters,” The Scotsman quoted Professor Andrew Whiten, from St Andrews, as saying.
“We gave the higher and lower status females foraging puzzles to solve, and when the observing chimpanzees were later given their turn, they overwhelmingly aped Georgia and Ericka, the high-status individuals within the group,” he added, explaining the study.
Georgia had a long history of introducing new behaviours and Ericka manages her group with a delicate touch, grooming nearly every individual frequently.
Jo Richardson, head keeper of the Budongo Trail chimps enclosure at Edinburgh Zoo, said, “We already know younger chimps learn from older members of the group, and that’s how culture and behaviour is passed on.
“So the findings of this research again emphasises the importance of status within chimp groups.” (ANI)
