Chimps Use Tool Kit

Wannabe Code Monkey writes "This article on National Geographic describes how scientists have observed chimps using different sticks for different tasks when retrieving termites from nests. Scientists had previously only seen chimps using one kind of tool, this switching back and forth based on the task at hand is the first such behavior witnessed. Three videos in Real format of the chimps are linked from the article as well."

Comments

Re:levels of intelligence...

[fiftyLou]

My dad always told me that "A dog will warm himself by the fire, but will never throw another log on it."

Hmm, and when he made this observation were you usually flaked out on the couch instead of out mowing the lawn or the like?

Nothing like subtle digs from dad.

Bird-brains

[bar-agent]

Bah. Chimps still aren't as smart as some birds.

Among the behaviors noted in birds:

• Making hooks and combs, then carrying the tools around with them -- and sharing them with others.
• Using car traffic to crack nuts.
• Raiding mountaineer food caches marked with flags.
• Counting and expressing their desires in words.
• Playing around with speed dial buttons and speakerphones.
• Leading other birds to food.
• Commercial transactions with people.

Of course, not all birds do all these things. But, they must be considered in the same ballpark as chimps and dolphins.