Grooming is a bonding experience for chimpanzees, and one reason is that it requires a lot of trust in one’s grooming partner. Chimps aren’t afraid to get quite personal with each other. The other day I caught Jamie very gently grooming Negra’s eyes and ears.
Kathleen says
Oh so delicate! Especially around Negra’s sweet, soft eyes. That video was just yummy to watch, thanks!
Vicki says
Well, when one doesn’t have a mirror to get to those hard to reach places, one needs a good friend.
Julie says
I love how gentle Jamie can be! Do all chimps (captive and wild) smack their lips when they groom?
Elizabeth says
As far as I know, grooming behaviors like lip smacking and tooth clacking are pretty universal in chimpanzees. There does tend to be some individual difference, though. Jamie’s a lip smacker, while Burrito’s a tooth clacker and raspberry blower. 🙂
Jackie says
Two lovely ladies!