Somewhere along the branches of human history, we developed the ability to speak. It’s an amazing ability that I’m now watching blossom in my 12.5 month old.
Of course, we’re not the only species that uses our mouths to communicate. I’m always fascinated to hear about ways in which animals talk to each other; the non-human variety repeatedly proves to be more complex than for which we give it credit.
Until recently, there were no primates known to couple “lip smacking” facial expressions with vocalizations – an action required for human-like speech. But now, there is the gelada. This is the first primate researchers have seen that appears to communicate in much the same way we do. Perhaps this will give us some insight into how humans started using speech.
I’ve got to get back to work, but you can read all about it here.
The more I learn about primates, the more I’m amazed at how similar we really are. ..