Chimpanzees are very intelligent animals and similar in many ways to human beings. Among others in their food diets and the way to obtain and consume them.
They're a omnivorous species It basically eats fruit and vegetables. And they obtain proteins from their diet of insects and small animals. Recent studies have shown that termites and ants are a staple in their diet due to the contribution of fat and protein necessary for its complete development and which is not present in vegetables.
To get “their protein ration” they spend time locating termite anthills. They create some tools to dig in the nests and others to remove them from them. With the former they make the ants react frantically. At that moment they take the opportunity to introduce the second reed-shaped tool to which the insects stick. In this way, when removing the cane from the termite mound, the termites get stuck to it, which they then consume. Not very different from how we would use a spoon to extract food from a container.
This “animal cover” used to obtain their ration is manufactured by them using a branch which, manipulated and cleaned, becomes a reed. First it allows them to introduce it into the termite mound and then for the animals to get hooked on it so they can be removed from it.
Special termite mounds for chimpanzees.
Inspired by the behavior of West African chimpanzees when it comes to obtaining their protein source The team of caregivers at BIOPARC Valencia has made special termite mounds for the group of chimpanzees from the park. With stainless steel tubes perforated with small holes They have simulated natural termite mounds so that they get rich food, from nutritious honey, yogurt, muesli, boiled potatoes, juice, light jams, raisins, gofio to any food that you want and that is difficult to get out.
In this way, animals are motivated to reproduce their natural behavior of seeking and obtaining their nutritional resources. And they are also inspired to make their “cutlery” to be able to eat those delicacies that they like so much. Finally they get the reward of enjoying their favorite delicacies and having adequate stimulation.
These special termite mounds, called "yogurt makers" By their caretakers, they are embedded in the different trees of the facility. Every day their locations and positioning vary so that the chimpanzee family has to search in different places. In this way, they are provided with entertainment, stimulation, exercise and nutrition that results in the well-being and enjoyment of the animal.
Chimpanzees using tools (environmental enrichment).
Besides, everything This process helps build bonds in the group. Adult chimpanzees, the ones who make better tools due to their experience, teach the younger ones who learn by observing and practicing. This is how group culture is created and information is shared from one individual to another.
Signed: BIOPARC Valencia animal technical department.
