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. 2008 Jul;11(3):413-22.
doi: 10.1007/s10071-007-0131-2. Epub 2008 Jan 9.

Do capuchin monkeys use weight to select hammer tools?

Affiliations

Do capuchin monkeys use weight to select hammer tools?

Cornelia Schrauf et al. Anim Cogn. 2008 Jul.

Abstract

The extent to which tool-using animals take into account the properties of the tool is little explored. The use of percussors to crack open encapsulated fruit is a complex form of tool use, the choice of an adequate tool being a critical aspect in success. Several properties (e.g., material, resistance, friability, shape and weight) affect the suitability of an object to open a hard-shelled nut, with weight being amongst the most important factors. In general, heavier tools require fewer strikes to crack open a nut.

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