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Elephants that remove ticks with sticks? Otters that crack open their lunch with rocks? Crows that slide down a roof on a jar lid—over and over? Take a fascinating look at the use of tools by animals around the world.Move over, humans! We’re not the only creatures who can invent and use tools to keep ourselves fed, warm, safe, healthy, comfortable—even entertained. Thanks to the careful observations of biologists working in the field, we now know that elephants use sunscreen, long-tailed macaques floss their teeth, assassin bugs use bait to lure their prey, orangutans make pillows, and crows will go sledding just for fun. Who’s the clever one now, eh? Join writer Richard Haynes and illustrator Stephanie Laberis for a walk on the wild side and get ready to be astonished, delighted, and amused by this jam-packed exploration. Interested readers will find a map, an introduction, a glossary, an index, and a bibliography for further investigation.

Orangutan Hats and Other Tools Animals Use by

In the realm of nature, the human monopoly on tool usage has been challenged by a growing body of evidence showcasing the remarkable ingenuity of animals. From the intricate nest-building skills of birds to the sophisticated fishing techniques employed by dolphins, animals across the spectrum have demonstrated their ability to craft and utilize tools to meet their diverse needs.

One such example of animal tool usage is the intriguing behavior of orangutans. These intelligent primates have been observed employing a variety of tools in their daily lives, including leaves as umbrellas to shield themselves from the rain, sticks as levers to extract insects from trees, and even large leaves as hats to protect their heads from the sun. Their ability to adapt and create tools from their surroundings highlights the cognitive flexibility and problem-solving capabilities of these fascinating creatures.

Beyond orangutans, the animal kingdom offers a multitude of examples of tool-using species. Chimpanzees have been seen using rocks to crack open nuts, while crows have demonstrated their remarkable ability to use sticks to retrieve food from hard-to-reach places. Elephants, with their trunks, have been observed using branches to swat away flies and even throwing rocks at predators in self-defense.

The use of tools by animals provides valuable insights into their cognitive abilities, their capacity for problem-solving, and their remarkable adaptability to their environments. These behaviors challenge our preconceived notions of human exceptionalism and underscore the interconnectedness of all living beings.