Orangutans value food more after hearing peers laugh, study suggests

Summary

Captive orangutans base their food choices partly on whether others seem to be having a good time, according to research. In the study, the great apes heard their peers laughing before they searched a bowl for a tasty treat, and they valued the reward more highly. The Guardian reports that this suggests emotions influence learning in these apes. Phys.org reports that a new Indiana University study found that being in a positive mood leads orangutans to value what they learned more strongly.

Timeline

1. The Guardian

   21 Oct 2026, 21:00 UTCSource ↗

   The Guardian reports that a study of captive orangutans found they were more likely to choose treats linked to the sound of peers having fun, suggesting emotions influence learning.

2. Phys.org

   21 Oct 2026, 21:00 UTCSource ↗

   Phys.org reports that a new Indiana University study found being in a positive mood leads orangutans to value what they learned more strongly.