Chimpanzees Use Rhythmic Drumming on Tree Trunks as Ancient Communication Method

Published: Friday, May 9, 2025 at 3:09 pm

**Chimpanzees' Rhythmic Drumming Reveals Ancient Communication Roots**

New research published in the journal *Current Biology* sheds light on the fascinating communication methods of chimpanzees, revealing that these primates use rhythmic drumming on tree trunks as a form of long-distance communication. This behavior, which involves striking tree roots to create distinct sounds, suggests that the ability to create and utilize rhythm for social interaction may predate the evolution of humans, dating back approximately six million years to a common ancestor shared by chimps and humans.

Scientists analyzed 371 instances of chimpanzee drumming, finding that the chimps consistently use regular rhythms when drumming on tree trunks. This drumming serves as a way for chimps to "socially check in," potentially alerting others to their location or direction of travel. Each chimpanzee possesses a unique drumming "signature," a pattern of beats that allows researchers to identify individual chimps.

The study also revealed regional variations in drumming styles. Western chimpanzees tend to favor a more even beat, while eastern chimpanzees utilize a wider range of short and long intervals between beats. Chimps are selective about the tree roots they choose to drum on, opting for those that produce sounds that travel well through the dense jungle environment. These low-frequency sounds can be heard for up to a kilometer, making drumming an effective means of communication. Researchers believe that tree roots can be considered tools, similar to rocks and sticks used by chimps for other purposes. This research highlights the complex social behaviors and cognitive abilities of chimpanzees, offering valuable insights into the evolution of communication.

Keywords: chimpanzees, drumming, rhythm, communication, tree trunks, primates, evolution, behavior, long-distance communication, sounds, Africa, western chimpanzees, eastern chimpanzees, research, Current Biology, social interaction, common ancestor, Henkjan Honing, Cat Hobaiter, Catherine Crockford

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