We are used to thinking that wildlife is rigid and subordinate solely to the struggle for survival. But a new study showed something unexpected: Babuins are lining up in a row not because it is so safer or more efficient. They just want to be near those who are loved.
Researchers at Sowthy University (United Kingdom) watched the Wild Babuins of Chakma in South Africa. Within 36 days, they analyzed 78 "progression" - this is the name of the consistent movement of the grandmothers in the line. And they revealed the pattern: the order is not accidental, but built on the basis of social ties.
Scientists have checked all classical hypotheses - protection of the weaker, following the leader, access to resources. But nothing of it explains the row. Moreover, dominant males do not go ahead at all as expected. They are inside the group, next to those with whom they have the most social ties. The results of the study showed that animals with lower social status are often ahead or behind - isolated. At the same time, high -ranking grandmothers, which have more social ties, are more likely to go in the center of the ranks surrounded by "comrades". This refutes the popular ideas about the behavior of animals according to which the group follows the alpha male. Babuins show something much more difficult - social dynamics based on trust and relationships.
As it turned out, animals not only act instinctively, but also seek comfort in friends. Like people, grandmothers want to be near those who are close to them - even on the way home.
