Ecological, social, and intrinsic factors affecting wild orangutans' curiosity, assessed using a field experiment.

ABSTRACT: The readiness to interact with and explore novel stimuli-i.e., curiosity-is the cornerstone of innovation. Great apes show broad and complex innovation repertoires. However, little is known about the factors that affect curiosity in wild apes. To shed light on wild apes' curiosity, we measured the reactions of wild Sumatran orangutans (Pongo abelii) to an experiment apparatus. Overall, individuals were reluctant to touch the apparatus. However, compared to adults, immatures showed higher tendencies to explore (measured through looking durations and the probability of touching the apparatus) and to approach (measured through approach latencies and approach distances) the apparatus but were more likely to show behavioral signs of agitation. The presence of conspecifics who approached the app

SUBMITTER: Schuppli C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10425418 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature