Chimpanzee gestures often have multiple meanings depending on the context. One gesture, known as exaggerated self-scratching or the Big Loud Scratch, can be either a request for grooming or a way to initiate group travel.
Missy, having finished her breakfast, was eager to take a walk up the hill and was seeking traveling companions.
But her friends were still working on their chow.
She waited for them to finish.
And soon she grew impatient.
Time for Quiet Little Missy to do a Big Loud Scratch.
“Let’s GO!”
The Big Loud Scratch is a clear and concise form of communication, but not always a compelling one. Sometimes, your friends will insist on eating before setting off on an adventure.
I feel like we’ve seen that one, JB, but not heard it .
Now I understand why Gordito uses it before a gane of chase!
Thanks, JB
Poor Missy, ready to roll and the gang is more interested in a leisurely chow picnic….even her trusty BFF, Annie is choosing chow bag over adventure!
I saw a PBS program on chimpanzee communication in the rainforests of Uganda. There were many gestures shown but the Big scratch was one. I remember a mother doing the Big Scratch, really exaggerated, to her reluctant youngster as a request to hop on mom’s back so they could move on together. It was a fascinating show.
But even more fascinating is discovering the chimps in captivity “speak the same language”! Very interesting.
Poor Missy! It’s hard waiting around for everyone to finish their lunches when you’re always on the move! Annie’s mouth full of chow cracked me up! I love it when she does that!
Thank you for the explanation!