News Animals

Ape cuddles could prevent conflicts

Friendly touches can keep things cool in groups of chimpanzees or bonobos under stress

One young chimpanzee hugs another.

Little Jake and Little Joey embrace in a forested sanctuary in Zambia. Hugs like these could help chimpanzees strengthen social bonds before times of stress.

Jake Brooker / Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage Trust

By Meghan Rosen

Hugs and kisses could help primates keep the peace.

Both chimpanzees and bonobos appear to use friendly physical touch as a way of easing tension among group members in stressful situations, researchers report July 22 in the Proceedings of the Royal Society B.