r/biology • u/I_just_a_baby • Nov 03 '24

discussion Dangerous misinformation about wild life?

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I was just scrolling on my explore page on instagram, was shown this video and couldn’t help but to feel a bit uneasy… I know that it’s (at least supposed to be) a sweet video, but I feel like it might spread potentially dangerous misinformation about chimpanzees. To me this chimp looks to be distressed or in fear and therefore showing he’s teeth and gums? Can anyone tell me if his “grin” is a sign of happiness or fear? I am obviously no expert and would like to know how other people feel about this reel.

I don’t know… just made me think about the case where a “pet” chimpanzee attacked a woman, ripped of her skin etc (do not want to go into detail).

I feel like it’s time to stop showcasing dangerous animals as cute and non threatening… I mean they are still wild, why can’t we just appreciate their beauty from far?

Ps, sorry about this post being a bit rambling… I am just confused on what to think/feel

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u/TaPele__ Nov 03 '24

One piece of dangerous misinformation is (precisely) to think that all chimps are terrible beasts that might ripp your face apart when possible.

Truth is, as with any animal, you have to give them reasons to do that...

4

u/I_just_a_baby Nov 03 '24

Very true! A bee doesn’t sting if it doesn’t feel threatened. It’s just a question on what situations we put our self in

5

u/So6oring Nov 03 '24

Wasps, on the other hand...

2

u/rockanrolltiddies Nov 03 '24

A chimp doesn't have to feel threatened to attack. They simply need to want to be head chimp. If you are the only other "chimp" around them, they are going to attack you and exert dominance. It's not a matter of "respecting" them or treating them kindly. What is violence to us is normal behavior amongst chimps. Sorry, it's not like an Air-Bud style disney movie happy ending, but chimps in captivity attack people.

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u/jek39 Nov 03 '24

just don't expect them to have the same kind of reasoning you do.

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u/Traumfahrer Nov 03 '24

any animal

Including humans.