LEXIGRAM SYMBOLS

The bonobos use the lexigram symbols to communicate with their human caregivers and visitors. For example, they are able to request their favorite foods, indicate which social partners they want to be with, and ask their caregivers to play '“water chase” with them. This is one more way the bonobos at Ape Initiative have choice in their daily lives! The bonobos all differ in their knowledge of the lexigrams, with Kanzi knowing the most symbols, so we make sure the bonobos always have access to a keyboard.