Chimpanzees were first caught on video during a “party” with alcohol (2 photos + 1 video)

Wild chimpanzees in Guinea-Bissau's Cantanes National Park have been observed sharing fermented fruits containing ethanol by zoologists





Researchers from the University of Exeter have captured the first video of wild chimpanzees consuming and sharing fermented African breadfruit, which contains ethanol. The findings suggest that the practice of sharing alcohol may have evolved.

Using motion-activated cameras installed in Guinea-Bissau's Cantanes National Park, scientists recorded 10 instances of chimpanzees "partying" by sharing fermented fruits. Lab analysis confirmed that the fruits contained ethanol at concentrations of up to 0.61%.



While the alcohol content of individual fruits is relatively low, the researchers note that this may be the "tip of the iceberg" given that 60 to 85 percent of chimpanzee diets are made up of fruit. Thus, even low levels of alcohol in individual products can add up to significant overall ethanol consumption.

An important feature of the observation is the unexpected social behavior of the primates. “Chimpanzees do not share food all the time, so this behavior with fermented fruits may be important,” emphasizes Dr. Kimberly Hockings, co-author of the study.

The scientists will continue their observations to understand whether chimpanzees deliberately seek out fruits containing ethanol, and how the primate body processes alcohol. The scientists emphasize that chimpanzees are unlikely to “get drunk” in the usual sense of the word, since this would reduce their chances of survival.