PIN Home > AV Resources > The Primates > Behavior of Social Animals

Primate Behavior

Page 20

20) Even in the roughest form of play, animals are seldom hurt. Older animals know that if a younger animal is hurt or scared, a scream can bring mother running to defend her baby. This interaction between a juvenile chimpanzee and an infant may look dangerous, but both animals know it is only play.

In the foreground, a juvenile chimpanzee drags an infant. Adult female chimpanzees in background appear
unconcerned, while another infant watches the play bout.

Notes: In the foreground, a juvenile chimpanzee drags an infant. Adult female chimpanzees in background appear unconcerned, while another infant watches the play bout.
Question for young students: Can you find all the animals?
Question for older students: Can you think of an example of rough play between humans of different ages? How do the participants know it is only play?
Photo © by: Nancy Staley

[Table of Contents] - [Slide Index] - [Previous Slide] - [Next Slide]