Chimpanzees — highly promiscuous species —are good fathers and more devoted to protect their offspring than previously thought, a research has revealed.
The study led by researchers from the George Washington University showed that male chimpanzees spend time with non-mating female chimpanzees that are caring for their offspring.
They interact with their infants more than expected as well as spend time on grooming and caring them.
“This research suggests that male chimpanzees may sometimes prioritise relationships with their offspring rather than with potential mates,” said Carson Murray, Assistant Professor at the George Washington University.
However, the chimpanzees spending time with nursing mothers did not increase the likelihood that they would be the father of that mother’s next infant, the researchers said. They said this finding is unexpected since the species is highly promiscuous and researchers previously questioned whether male chimpanzees could recognise their offspring. — IANS
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