Although this behavior has been reported at Bali’s Uluwatu Temple for years, it has never been scientifically studied in the wild. Therefore, Fany Brotcorne, a primatologist from the University of Brussels in Belgium, and some of her colleagues set out to discover how and why this talent has spread through the monkey population. This behavior is only found in monkeys who live at this temple, which suggests it’s a learned behavior rather than an innate ability. Brotocorne wanted to discover whether it was indeed cultural, which would give us a better understanding of the monkey’s cognitive abilities, and even human evolution.
Robbing and Bartering
Brotcorne spent four months observing four different groups of monkeys that live near the temple. The two groups that spent more time around tourists had the highest rates of robbing and bartering, supporting the idea that they learn the behavior by watching each other. Groups with more young males, who are known for their risky behavior, also had higher rates than other groups.
Although this was a small study, Brotcorne still believes that her team has found the first preliminary evidence that the behavior is a cultural one that has been transmitted across generations by monkeys learning from one another.
In the years since these observations, she has found more evidence: the members of a new group that moved in around the temple have also learned that they can use stolen goods to get food.
Serge Wich, a primatologist from Liverpool’s John Moores University in the UK, declares that Brotcorne’s study provides us with “A novel and quite spectacular example of flexibility in primate behavior in response to environmental changes.” Furthermore, the fact that this behavior isn’t found in other places where it could occur “indicates that it can indeed be a new behavioral tradition in primates and one that teaches us that new traditions can involve robbing and bartering with different species,” he says.
Brotcorne states that her work will help researchers learn more about the psychology of primates: how information is transmitted among groups, how they plan for the future, and how much they understand their own actions.
Furthermore, it could also help us answer questions about the evolution of our own cognitive abilities. She states that “bartering and trading skills are not well known in animals. They are usually defined as exclusive to humans.” But seeing it in these macaques could help us learn how the early behavior might have come about in the evolution of the human lineage.
Bonus Video: A Cheeky Macaque in Action
Source: newscientist
Images: depositphotos
Study Finds Breakfast to Be More Important Than We Knew
New study further solidifies the importance of eating breakfast by revealing a clear connection between skipping breakfast and higher risk of heart disease.
Unexpected Animal Guests That People Fell in Love With
These people came across some unexpected and unique animal guests. And they aren't complaining!
Can Probiotics Improve Mental Health? Research Says YES
Studies repeatedly show that probiotics can be a potentially effective treatment for several mental health issues. This is what is currently known on the topic.
The Link Between Excessive TV Watching & Cognitive Decline
Three recent studies find that the more TV you watch in your 40s to 60s, the greater your risk of brain health issues later in life. What can you do about it?
New Technology Can Help Extend the Life of Cancer Patients
Israeli scientists have claimed to have found a groundbreaking new cancer treatment that can kill cancer cells in the body.
Thinking of Taking a Long Nap? It Might Not Be a Good Idea
A new study claims that taking long naps may be harmful for our health. Find out more.
These Photos of 1920s Criminals are Fascinating
Through archival snippets, we uncover tales of deception, ambition, and survival, painting a vivid tableau of a bygone time where lawlessness wove its complex tapestry.
An In-Depth Look Into Who Princess Diana Truly Was...
A remarkable feature-length documentary that reveals a side of Diana we have never seen before.
Flashback: Unfreezing Ice Cream's Delicious Origins
Did you know that even ancient civilizations had ice cream?
You Think Motherhood is Hard? Look What This Mother Does!
This woman is truly a supermom - would you be able to change four young bundles of joy as they shuffle about the bed, all while wearing a smile on your face?
Nostalgia: Gorgeous Photos of America in the 1950s
We hope you enjoy these beautiful captures of the 1950s in the USA.
This Magical Shadow Dance Show Will Leave You in Tears
The most beautiful shadow dance performance.
Nostalgic Collection: Click to See the Historical Photos!
Click on any of the photos to be taken to a post full of some of our most fascinating historical photographs.
Through the Lens of Time: 20 Rare Historical Photos
These amazing historical photos shed light on some rarely-seen events of the past.
Step Back In Time: A Glimpse Into '50s and '60s New York
New York City was a vastly different places in the 1950s and 60s. These black and white photos by Vivian Maier captured it perfectly.
9 Times the Future Was Predicted With Surprising Accuracy!
These 9 historical events were predicted with extreme accuracy, and here is who managed to forecast them...
These Archeological Finds Continue to Baffle Researchers
Some archeological discoveries that have been made simply cannot be explained away by modern researchers. Here are 15 of these baffling finds.
How to Detect a Liar, Explained by a Former FBI agent
Former FBI agent explains about deception detection methods, and debunks common myths.
Vivaldi's "Four Seasons" are Much More Than Just Music
In this TED-Ed video, Betsy Schwarm explains just why it is that you should listen to Vivaldi's "Four Seasons."
SPECIAL: Just Wanted to Say, Have a Great Day!!!
Help someone have a great day today, by sending them one of our wonderful greeting cards.
Be Prepared! These Facts About the World Are Pretty Scary
These facts are incredibly fascinating... but they've got an element of spookiness to them too!
How to Approach an Unfamiliar Dog Safely
Just as there are courtesy rules to meeting a person for the first time, there are also right and wrong ways to approach an unfamiliar dog.
These Kind Inventions Were Made to Make Animals Happy
Every year humans build thousands of new roads, rails, airports and buildings. Many hurt the environment. But some kind people only build to help animals!
You Won't BELIEVE What This 81 Year Old Can Do!
Incredible stunt by an 81 year old woman proves that age is becoming less and less relevant.
9 ‘Current’ Words That Are Much Older Than You’d Guess
Hipster, Influencer and Dude - all these words sound so quintessentially modern, but you'd be surprised to learn how old they actually are.
20th Century: The MOST Popular Breakfast of Every Decade
Breakfast shape-shifted quite a bit during the 20th century. Discover the most popular breakfast delicacy of every decade in this article
History Can Be Ironic & These 12 Stories Prove Just That...
These 12 short stories from world history are strange, tragic, but most importantly, utterly ironic...
Baby Boomers, Do You Remember These Vintage Products?
If you are member of the baby boomer generation, you may just remember these nostalgic products from your childhood.
Meet the One-Handed Climbing Champion, Brian Zarzuela
Brian Zarzuela has overcome disability in the most extraordinary ways.
Rock On with This 'Eye of the Tiger' Drum Solo Act
This has to be the most stunning drum performance!
Fact or Fiction? Debunking History's Most Common Myths
Update your knowledge of the Middle Ages by learning the truth behind these 12 common myths.
12 of the Most Inexplicably Weird Things Ever Discovered
In the world, a lot of discoveries often raise more questions than they answer. Here are 12 of the most inexplicably weird things and places ever found.
8 Little-Known Wars Rarely Found in History Books
Today, let’s talk about some of the weirdest and little-known wars from history.
18 Moments of History that Shed Light On Different Times
These 18 photos open a world of yesteryear for us to explore and enjoy.
18 Unlikely But True Facts That Will Get You Thinking
The saying truth is stranger than fiction is all too true when you read these incredible facts. #2 had me grabbing for my calculator.
Did You Know You're Intelligent If You Have These Traits?
There are certain signs of intelligence that are actually quite subtle. Here are 10 subtle signs that are hallmarks of intelligence.
Enjoy These Brilliant Documentaries for Free on YouTube
Done with your Netflix’s docuseries supply? Check out these wonderful free documentaries on YouTube next.
The Epic Battle of Stalingrad Comes to Life
One of the most epic battles in history, and the biggest of WWII comes to life and explored in this in-depth video.
I Just Wanted to Remind You: You're the BEST!
Do you know someone who ought to be given some appreciation? Make their day today by congratulating them with a sweet compliment!
18 Things You Probably Didn't Know About Medieval Times
Watch Medieval Literature Dr. Dorsey Armstrong answer all the important questions related to the Middle Ages.
16 Absolutely Unforgettable Historical Photographs
Take a peek at these unforgettable 16 photos, and see history from a brand new perspective.
Hitler's Olympics: The 1936 Berlin Olympic Games
When the Olympics became a Nazi showcase.
10 of the Most Interesting Popes in History
The papacy has been ongoing ever since the time of St. Peter, but some popes stand out as being more historically significant than others. Take a look.
In the West, We Have Much to Learn From the East...
Eastern philosophy is vastly different to Western philosophy, and we all have much to learn from the schools of thought from that part of the world.
These Practical Charts Will Make You More Knowledgeable
These charts, maps, and tables cover all kinds of topics - from health and geography to home design and cleaning tips. It’s a goldmine of practical knowledge!
15 Jaw-Dropping Facts You'll Find Hard to Believe!
Want to find out who really built the pyramids, or how many teeth a snail has? Here are 15 of the most unbelievable yet true facts.
The Most Successful Hoaxes In History
The world loves pranks and history has a trail of good and bad ones. Here are some of the most successful hoaxes ever pulled.