Chimpanzees: Clever Primates
Our closest animal relatives and their tool use
Sparks wonder at how clever animals solve problems
5 min read · 2-4
Listen to this storyThe story
High in the sunny rainforest canopy, a clever chimpanzee swings from branch to branch. Playing all morning has made their tummy rumble.
Peering down through the leaves, the hungry chimp spots a giant, clay termite mound sitting on the forest floor below.
The chimp climbs down and scratches at the hard clay mound. But the walls are too tough, and their fingers cannot reach the treats inside.
Looking around, the chimp finds a heavy stone and bangs it against the mound. But the tough clay only chips a tiny bit.
Sitting back, the chimp notices a green leafy bush nearby. They pluck a long, thin branch and carefully pull off all the leaves.
Holding the smooth twig, the chimpanzee carefully guides it into a tiny opening in the hard clay mound.
They wait very quietly, holding their breath. Suddenly, they feel a tiny tickle on the other end of the twig.
With a quick, gentle tug, the chimp pulls the twig out. It is covered in delicious termites! Success!
The happy chimp licks the tasty termites off the stick. It is the most delicious snack they have ever eaten!
Excited to share, the clever chimp shows their family how to use the twig to catch their own treats.
Soon, the whole family is busy fishing for termites. The forest floor is filled with happy hooting and clever chimps hard at work.
Safe in the warm treetops, the chimpanzee family rests. With clever minds, they are ready for tomorrow's adventures.
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