July 11, 2025

Chimpanzees in Zambia have caught the attention of researchers with a peculiar fashion trend involving grass accessories. What started as an odd habit by a single chimp named Julie in 2010 has now evolved into a widespread phenomenon among different groups of chimps. The behavior, which serves no clear purpose in terms of survival or health, has been observed to continue even after Julie's death. Another group of chimps at the same sanctuary adopted the trend in 2023, adding a unique twist by inserting the grass in their rectums. This variation, unlike the original ear decoration, seems to be a chimp-innovated behavior, possibly initiated by a male chimp named Juma. The trend quickly caught on within the group, indicating a form of social learning and imitation among the chimps. Researchers speculate that human caretakers may have unintentionally influenced the behavior, as some admitted to inserting objects like matchsticks or blades of grass in their ears for cleaning, which the chimps may have observed and replicated. However, the rectal aspect of the trend appears to be solely a chimp-created style. Despite the seemingly playful and superficial nature of this trend, scientists believe that it holds a deeper social function within chimpanzee societies. Mimicking each other's behaviors can help in building connections and strengthening social bonds among chimps, similar to how viral trends shape human culture. The trend highlights how animals in enriched environments, such as captivity, can engage in innovative behaviors that may not be observed in the wild. While the exact reasons behind this grass accessory trend remain unclear, it showcases the creativity and social dynamics of chimpanzees, portraying them as more complex and community-oriented creatures than previously thought.

Read More at Timesofindia →

Tags: Chimpanzees, Fashion, Wildlife, Trends,