Playful Chimps Show Adults Can Monkey Around Too, Study Finds

In a groundbreaking discovery that challenges previous assumptions about animal behavior, researchers have found that chimpanzees, like humans, continue playing well into adulthood – especially before engaging in cooperative activities.

The study, published in Current Biology on November 21, observed three groups of chimps in Côte d'Ivoire's Taï Forest.

Researchers found adult chimps regularly wrestling, mock biting, and chasing each other, complete with "play faces" and vocalizations similar to human smiles and laughter.

"Adult social play in chimpanzees can foster a range of cooperative behaviors," says lead researcher Liran Samuni of the German Primate Center.

The study of 57 adult chimps revealed increased playful behavior before group activities like monkey hunting or territorial defense.

Play sessions were particularly common among close social partners and during times of social tension, suggesting a possible role in conflict resolution.

The behavior was especially prevalent in this cohesive chimp community, though researchers note that different chimp populations may show varying patterns.

The findings offer new insights into the evolutionary roots of play and its role in promoting social bonds – proving that when it comes to having fun, age is just a number, even in the animal kingdom.

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