 |
 |
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
 |
|
 |
 |
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
   |
|
C H I M P F A C T S
GroomingGrooming has a twofold purpose (and is probably pleasurable besides). By running their fingers through each others' hair, chimpanzees remove dirt, dead skin, and parasites. Grooming is also the single most important social activity and takes up a lot of each day's rest periods. Through these actions chimpanzees nourish friendships, comfort each other, and patch up disagreements. Grooming also shows how socially sophisticated (or manipulative) chimps are, interacting this way often to get what they want. For instance, mothers of young babies are often groomed by curious chimps hoping to get a closer look at the newcomer. Grooming is also thought to be pleasurable. A chimpanzee may ask to be groomed by looking at someone and scratching or offering an arm or leg. Pairs sit together, one grooming the other or taking turns. Often those on the receiving end get more and more relaxed and may nod off. Occasionally the grooming partner is manipulated into a new position. The eagerness with which the partner changes positions to aid the groomer suggests that chimpanzees enjoy being groomed. » Back | |||||||||||||
Save the Chimps is a 501 (c)(3) charitable organization and all contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law ©2004 - Present savethechimps.org. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy | Contact Us | |||||||||||||||
