News Animals

For adult chimps, playing may be more important than previously thought

The role of play among adult chimpanzees has been understudied. New research aims to fix that

A chimpanzee looks closely into the camera, while four other chimps sit in a group close behind her

Play behavior among adult chimpanzees may have many benefits such as reducing group tension or boosting cooperation.

Cyril Ruoso/Minden Pictures

By Gennaro Tomma

You are never too old to play — a maxim that even adult chimpanzees seem to follow.