Chimpanzees Sway, Clap Their Hands When They Hear Music

While the chimps didn't match the beat, it's an indication they respond instinctively to sounds.

By Leslie Nemo
Dec 27, 2019 4:30 PMDec 27, 2019 5:01 PM
Chimpanzee
When chimps hear music, they sometimes respond with behavior similar to dancing. (Credit: Sharon Morris/Shutterstock)

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When humans hear music, our response is often instinctual. We sway back and forth, nod our heads or tap our feet. That innate urge to dance might not be confined to our species, either. A new study finds that chimps respond in much the same way to pieces of music.

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