Research has shown that chimpanzees utilize a wide variety of gestures to communicate with one another and that the meanings of these gestures are often understood by people with no training in chimpanzee behavior, suggesting the possibility of a universal ape vocabulary.
As Dr. Catherine Hobaiter states, “They target them to a specific recipient, and they do that with a specific goal in mind. Several gestures are very similar to those of humans: having your palm up is a begging gesture and pushing away with your hand means “go away,” she says.
With all due respect to Dr. Hobatier, I think she misses some of the more subtle nuances in each of these examples, so allow me (and Mave and Dora) so translate further:
Mave: I love you Dora. You know, I don’t say that enough. I love you. And I would do anything for you.
Dora: Gee, thanks Mave.
Mave: Would you do anything for me?
Dora: I guess so, sure.
Mave Can I have your fennel, then?
Dora: Get lost! You already had one!
Mave. But I love you.
Dora: I know, thanks.
Mave: Anytime, friend. So, about that fennel…
Dora. I’m outta here…
