Chimpanzees enjoy a drink: First footage shows them sharing alcoholic fruit

Chimpanzees indulging in alcohol? Not as strange as it sounds. Camera footage reveals chimps sharing fermented African breadfruit, confirming their status as social drinkers.

Researchers from the University of Exeter observed this behavior in Guinea-Bissau's Cantanhez National Park. The fruit contained ethanol, raising questions about whether chimps seek alcohol intentionally or simply enjoy its effects.

Humans have long consumed alcohol for social bonding, and similar benefits may apply to our closest relatives. "Alcohol triggers dopamine and endorphin release in humans, promoting happiness and relaxation," explains lead researcher Anna Bowland. "Sharing alcohol through traditions like feasts strengthens social bonds. Do chimps experience similar benefits?"

The footage captured chimps sharing fermented fruit on ten occasions, with an alcohol content up to 0.61%—equivalent to an eighth of a beer. While unlikely to cause intoxication, this behavior hints at evolutionary roots of social drinking.