Great Apes kiss and cuddle to keep the peace, says study
Summary
Scientists studied how chimpanzees and bonobos use touching, hugging, and kissing to calm each other before stressful events like fights over food. This behavior helps them trust and cooperate peacefully and may have started millions of years ago before humans existed.Key Facts
- Researchers observed chimpanzees and bonobos in sanctuaries in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia.
- The apes touched and embraced each other before food was given, to reduce stress and build trust.
- Physical contact included touching, hugging, kissing, and even putting fingers in mouths.
- Groups that showed more close contact were more peaceful when sharing food.
- Scientists called these actions "reassurance trains," where many apes hugged in a row.
- The behavior is seen as a very old way to communicate and likely existed before humans and apes split from a common ancestor around seven million years ago.
- This study was published in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences.
- The findings suggest human gestures like hugs or pats before stressful events may come from these ancient social behaviors.
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