Chimpanzees also seek teenage kicks! Adolescent chimps take more risks than older apes, study finds

Shoplifting, drinking, and slamming doors - these are all behaviours parents of teenagers may be all too familiar with. Researchers from the University of Michigan have revealed that adolescent chimpanzees also take more risks and are more likely to throw tantrums than older apes. Adolescent chimpanzees take more risks and are more likely to throw tantrums than older apes, a study from the University of Michigan has shown. Pictured: A young chimp relaxing on a tree branch Evolutionary relationship between humans and chimpanzees The exact time the two lineages split remains unclear - although it is thought they could have separated as late as five million years ago. Older chimpanzees were less likely to throw tantrums than their teenage peers when waiting to receive a treat The study showed that teen chimps were more likely to take risks by choosing a hidden container that could contain either banana or cucumber, rather than choosing the safe option containing peanuts Saliva samples were also taken to track hormone levels.