Apes make themselves dizzy for fun

Share to Google Classroom

A new study has found that the spinning behavior in apes could be linked to their mood and senses.

A new study has revealed that apes like gorillas, chimpanzees, bonobos, and orangutans spin round and round to make themselves dizzy because they enjoy the feeling it gives them.

According to researchers from the University of Warwick and the University of Birmingham, this behavior, which they say is almost like dancing, could also tell us something about early human behavior.

The study analysed 40 online videos of apes spinning, with the animals spinning an average of five and a half times per episode and reaching an average speed of one and a half revolutions per second. The scientists found that the apes spin around because it helps improve their mood, social bonding, and boosts their senses.

Dr. Adriano Lameira, associate professor of psychology at the University of Warwick and co-leader of the study, said, “Spinning alters our state of consciousness, it messes up our coordination, which makes us feel sick, lightheaded, and even elated as in the case of children playing in merry-go-rounds, spinner-wheels, and carousels.”

1
Take a deep breath—ahh, fresh air! Or is it? Sometimes,...
1
Northland, New Zealand, will be under a total fire ban...
1
Many celebrities are known for their talents in music, sports,...
1
A Canadian man set a Guinness World Record by eating...
1
A unique orchestra in Vienna, Austria, has set a Guinness...

World & National News

1
Saturday was International Unplugged Day, a reminder to take a...
1
A private lunar lander, called Athena, has stopped working after...
1
Auckland’s Pasifika Festival returned to Western Springs last weekend, celebrating...
1
A massive wildfire is burning in northeastern Japan, forcing thousands...
1
A rare tropical cyclone, named Alfred, is expected to hit...