Hyderabad: A recent multi-organisational research study delves into the fascinating behavior of Hanuman langurs, shedding light on their ability to intuitively understand human intentions when it comes to food. These astute non-human primates employ a repertoire of eight distinct ‘begging’ gestures, showcasing a nuanced level of communication proficiency.
These langurs, ranging from juveniles to adults (excluding infants), have become adept at employing intentional gestural communication techniques, specifically targeted at pilgrims and tourists. This skillful manipulation is geared towards persuading or compelling humans to part with their favored food items.
Hailing from the Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics (CDFD), researchers conducted an extensive study across diverse pilgrim centers. Their findings, published on the online preprint platform bioRxiv on September 9, elucidate a compelling pattern. These langurs exhibit a discerning inclination towards selecting preferred food items, persistently declining offerings until their desired morsel is provided, after which they continue their solicitations with the same individual.
The research team meticulously identified eight distinct begging behaviors based on the langurs’ postures. These include bipedal and quadrupedal begging, embracing legs, holding cloth, clasping hands, employing aggression, passive appeals, and provocation-initiated requests.
Moreover, this observation aligns with the proposition that the evolution of human language may find its roots in pre-existing communication capabilities observed in our non-human primate counterparts. The study underscores the remarkable adaptability and cognitive prowess of these Hanuman langurs, as they navigate a complex interplay of gestures to convey a singular message: “provide sustenance.” They exhibit an acute ability not only to gauge the mental state of humans but also to monitor if the intended recipient has effectively received the food request signal, demonstrating a noteworthy degree of goal persistence.
