3.17 – Tool Use in Nonhuman Primates: Natural History, Ontogenetic Development and Social Supports for Learning

Humans have used tools since the dawn of our species. A few other species of primates in South America, Africa, and Asia also use tools, primarily to obtain foods that cannot be obtained by other techniques. Using a tool challenges movement coordination and planning. Although nonhuman primates neither teach others nor learn via imitation to use tools, their ways of using tools are traditions. Young individuals learn to use tools through sustained practice, which is supported directly and indirectly by social partners.