The researchers, led by scientists from the University of Exeter in the UK, caught the chimpanzees on film sharing fermented African breadfruit in Guinea-Bissau’s Cantanhez national park. The fruit shared was tested for alcohol content. The highest level found was the equivalent of 0.61% alcohol by volume (ABV). While the fruit may not get the chimpanzees drunk, it is entirely possible that they were enjoying a nice, light buzz together. Anna Bowland, a researcher at the Centre for Ecology and Conservation at Exeter’s Penryn campus, explains what this could mean for the mammals. “For humans, we know that drinking alcohol leads to a release of dopamine and endorphins, and resulting feelings of happiness and relaxation,” she said.

“We also know that sharing alcohol, including through traditions such as feasting, helps to form and strengthen social bonds.

“Now we know that wild chimpanzees are eating and sharing ethanolic fruits, the question is: could they be getting similar benefits?”

“Chimps don’t share food all the time, so this behaviour with fermented fruit might be important,” said Kimberley Hockings, also from the University of Exeter.