Video Choices
An exploration of choice and attention of captive chimpanzees with the use of live-video feeds
Using video images displayed on a computer monitor in a research area, chimpanzees were able to choose which group members and other locations in their enclosure to watch by making a response on a touchscreen. By learning more about their choice and preferences when viewing live-video feeds and corresponding behaviour following the viewing, we hope to better understand both their understanding of referential images and also the social dynamics of captive chimpanzees.
The purpose of the current study was to:
- Provide the chimpanzees with experience with the properties of video
- To further examine understanding of video images by building on the chimpanzees’ previous experience with a touch-screen monitor (where they had access to their own live images) by giving them access to other familiar images
- Test whether or not the chimpanzees’ choices vary systematically (e.g. follow one particular chimpanzee, monitor a specific location etc)