I remember when I first learned that adult house cats “meow” almost exclusively to humans and not to other cats. It’s still fascinating to me that in the course of domestication, not only have we selected for certain vocal tendencies in cats but they have also exploited some natural human perceptual tendencies to be able to express what they want – for example, food, affection, or help when they are in trouble. It’s a language, if you will, that exists only between our two species.
Chimpanzees are obviously not domesticated but they certainly are smart, and they have also found unique ways to communicate with humans. The Bronx cheer, or raspberry, is part of the vocal repertoire of many free-living chimpanzees but it is typically used when grooming. Captive chimpanzees, however, have discovered that at full volume it’s a great way to get the attention of humans. And if you do it over and over again, louder and louder each time, the humans will eventually give in. Or go crazy. Either way, it’s enriching for them.
That was hysterical! Little Foxie sure makes herself heard — I am going to call her “Ripping Raspberry Foxie” (sounds like it could be a name for one of her dolls). I have to ask, was she fed first and then started blowing raspberries because she wanted more, or did she sneak into the line late after Dianna started serving? And there sits Negra, patiently waiting for her red ripe berries. That was Negra whooing at the bird, right? Geez, I loved that but I adore everything Negra. The shot of everyone lined up and photographed from behind is just so sweet too. Leave it to Burrito to ham it up between his servings thus leaving me laughing as hard at the end as I was when the video began.
Thanks, what a great way to end the week!
how about “Raspberry fraiche” Foxie?! 😛
Missy was pretty parient, considering they were tomatoes, and she’s sitting there next to Neggie, who was cleaning up!
Just the beginning of some grunts from our sparkplug!
Yes, why was Foxie acting as though she hadn’t had any!?
Loved the back shot of them all lined up. But thought it was so funny when Foxie got out of her No. 1 position and moved to the end of the line to get a second helping. Clever girl.
I sit here grinning at my laptop while my heart and soul fill up with joy and happiness! THANK YOU
Fantastic!!!! Love this visual and audio Chimpanzee Talk … what great people they are.. and all of you are. 😉