Communication Skills


Wild Chimp Communication Skills



Chimpanzees have their own complex system of communication. They may not do it verbally like us, but they sure can be vocal! They also have many facial expressions to convey their messages. This ability to communicate shows a higher level of intelligence, and they have even been known to pick up basic sign language.

Chimpanzees use over 30 different vocalisations for different situations. Some of these we would even recognise as similar our own, like a scream when they’re scared or angry, a whimper when distressed, and even a grunt of satisfaction with good food.

Non-verbal communication is also very important. Touch such as holding hands and grooming is incredibly important to show love, support, and build special bonds. They also have very expressive faces. When they’re nervous they will crack what looks like a big toothy smile, smile when they’re happy, when they’re playing, they relax and open their mouth, and they even pout when under threat, begging, or searching for their mothers!



