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Baboons' Walking Patterns Driven by Social Bonds, Study Reveals

8/30/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Researchers at Swansea University studied chacma baboons in South Africa to analyze their walking patterns.
Baboons walk in lines primarily to remain close to social companions rather than for safety or competition.
The concept of a 'social spandrel' suggests these travel patterns arise from social bonds, not evolved strategies.
Strong social ties among baboons are linked to longer lifespans and reproductive success, without immediate travel benefits.

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Story summary

Researchers at Swansea University studied chacma baboons in South Africa to analyze their walking patterns.
Baboons walk in lines primarily to remain close to social companions rather than for safety or competition.
The concept of a 'social spandrel' suggests these travel patterns arise from social bonds, not evolved strategies.
Strong social ties among baboons are linked to longer lifespans and reproductive success, without immediate travel benefits.