Chimpanzees drum with regular rhythm when they beat on tree trunks, a form of ancient communication - AP News

Published: Friday, May 9, 2025 at 3:01 pm

**Chimpanzees Drum with Rhythm: Ancient Communication Revealed**

A groundbreaking new study published in the journal *Current Biology* reveals that chimpanzees, our closest primate relatives, drum on tree trunks with regular rhythms, suggesting a form of ancient communication. This behavior, which likely dates back to our shared ancestor from around 6 million years ago, provides valuable insights into the origins of rhythm and social communication.

Researchers analyzed 371 instances of chimpanzee drumming, finding that the primates consistently use rhythmic patterns when beating on tree trunks. This drumming serves as a form of long-distance communication, potentially signaling location, direction of travel, and social check-ins. Each chimpanzee possesses a unique drumming "signature," allowing others to identify the individual producing the sounds.

The study also highlights regional differences in drumming styles. Western chimpanzees tend to use a more even beat, while eastern chimpanzees employ varied intervals between beats. Chimpanzees are selective about the tree roots they choose to drum on, favoring those that produce sounds that travel well through the dense jungle environment. These tree roots, the researchers suggest, function as tools, much like rocks used for cracking nuts or sticks used for fishing termites.

This research underscores the importance of rhythm in primate communication and offers a glimpse into the evolutionary roots of human musicality and social interaction. The study's findings suggest that the ability to create and understand rhythm predates the emergence of humans as a distinct species.

Keywords: chimpanzees, drumming, rhythm, communication, primate, evolution, tree trunks, ancient, behavior, social, Africa, research, Current Biology, Henkjan Honing, Cat Hobaiter, Catherine Crockford, long-distance communication, signature, beats, sounds, jungle.

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