Scientists film chimpanzees learning for the first time (VIDEO) | Watch

Researchers have for the first time captured on hidden cameras the process of adult chimpanzees purposefully teaching their young in the wild. The video footage from the Dindefelo savanna demonstrates the transfer of skills such as hunting ants, harvesting algae, and cracking baobab fruits.

Scientists have for the first time filmed chimpanzees purposefully teaching their young. Researchers set up camera traps at fourteen points in the Dindefelo savanna. The resulting video material allowed for a detailed study of primate behavior. The hidden cameras captured mother chimpanzees teaching their young to hunt ants, harvest algae, and crack hard baobab fruits. Lead author Andreu Sanchez-Mejias from the University of Barcelona noted that the adults used stone and wooden anvils, demonstrating the correct technique to the young. In total, researchers managed to capture about fifteen hours of video containing thirty-three episodes of direct tool transfer. Among these, nineteen cases involved ant hunting, ten involved algae collection, and another four involved termite feeding. Additionally, scientists obtained a half-hour recording of baobab fruit cracking. Specialists classify this behavior as proto-tool use, since the primates use stones and branches without prior modification or processing. The cameras captured examples of mentoring: in one case, an adult female left a stick-tool in a nest and pulled the young one toward the tool. In another situation, an older chimpanzee guided the hand movements of a younger relative, helping to hold a baobab fruit.